Cryogenic cylinder control system, globe valve, and solenoid valve

ABSTRACT

A valve assembly ( 6000 ) for use with a valve body ( 7000 ) having a valve seat ( 7112 ) is disclosed, the valve assembly ( 6000 ) comprising: a cartridge ( 6200 ) threadably engaged with and extending away from the valve body ( 7000 ); a poppet ( 6500 ) slidably engaged with the cartridge ( 6200 ); a plate ( 6600 ) engaged with the poppet ( 6500 ); a plunger ( 6400 ) slidably engaged with the cartridge ( 6200 ) and slidably extending through the plate ( 6600 ); and a retainer ( 6450 ) captured between the plate ( 6600 ) and a surface of the poppet ( 6500 ), wherein the retainer ( 6450 ) is threadably engaged with the plunger ( 6400 ). The valve assembly ( 6000 ) can regulate fluid flow.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to a cryogenic cylinder control systemfor regulating fluid in a cryogenic cylinder, a globe valve forregulating fluid flow, and a solenoid valve for regulating fluid flow.

BACKGROUND

Cryogenic cylinder control systems include several components welded toa cryogenic cylinder and used to regulate fluid in the cryogeniccylinder. A cryogenic cylinder generally houses liquid (such as liquidnatural gas) along with gas in a head space above the liquid. A typicalcryogenic cylinder control system includes various pressure reliefdevices (such as valves and/or burst discs) to release pressure in thehead space when it exceeds a certain threshold. A typical cryogeniccylinder control system also includes a pressure-building circuitcomprised of multiple valves and a vaporizer coil to convert some of theliquid within the cryogenic cylinder to gas and to introduce the gasinto the head space within the cryogenic cylinder. A typical cryogeniccylinder control system also includes an economizer circuit includingmultiple valves used to dispense overpressure gas from the head spacewithin the cryogenic cylinder to a user device.

Typical globe valves are used to convey and regulate the flow of fluid.A typical globe valve includes a valve body that defines an inlet influid communication with an outlet and a valve seat between the inletand the outlet. A typical globe valve includes a hand wheel attached toone end of a valve stem and a seat disc connected to the other end ofthe valve stem. The valve stem is movable via rotation of the hand wheelbetween a closed position in which the seat disc sealingly engages thevalve seat to prevent fluid from flowing from the inlet to the outletand an open position in which the seat disc is disengaged from the valveseat to enable fluid to flow from the inlet to the outlet.

Typical solenoid valves are used to regulate the flow of fluid through avalve body. A typical solenoid valve is mounted to the valve body andincludes an electromagnetic coil that is energizable to either open (inthe case of a normally closed valve) or close (in the case of a normallyopen valve) the valve. This opening or closing either prevents orenables fluid flow past the solenoid valve, depending on theconfiguration.

SUMMARY

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a cryogeniccylinder control system for regulating fluid within a cryogeniccylinder. The cryogenic cylinder control system comprises a pressurerelief and vent module fluidly connectable to a head space above liquidwithin the cryogenic cylinder, a manual valve module fluidly connectableto the liquid within the cryogenic cylinder and to an external device, asolenoid valve module fluidly connectable to the manual valve module andto the head space within the cryogenic cylinder, a build-up coil fluidlyconnectable to the manual valve module and to the solenoid valve module,and a controller operatively connected to the solenoid valve module tocontrol fluid flow through the solenoid valve module.

In operation, the pressure relief and vent module is configured toprotect the cryogenic cylinder from over-pressurization and to enable anoperator to manually vent gas from inside the cryogenic cylinder. Inoperation, components of the manual valve module and the solenoid valvemodule form a pressure-building circuit that enables an operator toincrease the gas pressure within the cryogenic cylinder by vaporizingsome of the liquid in the cryogenic cylinder into gas via the build-upcoil and to introduce the gas into the cryogenic cylinder. Components ofthe manual valve module enable the operator to dispense liquid fromwithin the cryogenic cylinder to the external device. Components of themanual valve module and components of the solenoid valve module form aneconomizer circuit that enables an operator to dispense gas from withinthe cryogenic cylinder to the external device.

This application is defined by the appended claims. The descriptionsummarizes aspects of exemplary embodiments and should not be used tolimit the claims. Other implementations are contemplated in accordancewith the techniques described herein, as will be apparent uponexamination of the following drawings and detailed description, and suchimplementations are intended to be within the scope of this application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the cryogenic cylindercontrol system of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the cryogenic cylinder control system ofFIG. 1 showing fluid flow through the cryogenic cylinder control systemwhen the build-up valve is in the open configuration, the build-upsolenoid valve is energized, and the economizer solenoid valve is notenergized.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the cryogenic cylinder control system ofFIG. 1 showing fluid flow through the cryogenic cylinder control systemwhen the service valve is in the open configuration, the economizersolenoid valve is energized, and the build-up solenoid valve is notenergized.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the cryogenic cylinder control system ofFIG. 1 showing fluid flow through the cryogenic cylinder control systemwhen the service valve is in the open configuration and the build-up andeconomizer solenoid valves are not energized.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the globe valve ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the valve body of the globe valveof FIG. 5.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the valve body of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the gland nut of the globe valve ofFIG. 5.

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the gland nut of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of the upper spindle of the globevalve of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the upper spindle of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the lower spindle of the globevalve of FIG. 5.

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the lower spindle of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the solenoidvalve assembly of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the coil assembly of the solenoidvalve assembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of the solenoid valveassembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the nut of the solenoid valveassembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the plunger of the solenoid valveassembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the poppet of the solenoid valveassembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the retainer of the solenoid valveassembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the seat disc of the solenoid valveassembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly ofFIG. 10 in which the solenoid valve is in a closed configuration.

FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly ofFIG. 10 in which the solenoid valve is in a first intermediateconfiguration.

FIG. 18C is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly ofFIG. 10 in which the solenoid valve is in a second intermediateconfiguration.

FIG. 18D is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly ofFIG. 10 in which the solenoid valve is in an open configuration.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the pressurerelief device and vent module of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the solenoidvalve assembly of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 is another perspective view of the second embodiment of thesolenoid valve assembly of the present disclosure.

FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly ofFIGS. 20 and 21 in which the solenoid valve is in a closedconfiguration.

FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly ofFIGS. 20 and 21 in which the solenoid valve is in an intermediateconfiguration.

FIG. 22C is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly ofFIGS. 20 and 21 in which the solenoid valve is in a partially openconfiguration.

FIG. 22D is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly ofFIGS. 20 and 21 in which the solenoid valve is in a fully openconfiguration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The description that follows describes, illustrates and exemplifies oneor more embodiments of the present disclosure in accordance with itsprinciples. This description is not provided to limit the presentdisclosure to the embodiments described herein, but rather to explainand teach the principles of the present disclosure in order to enableone of ordinary skill in the art to understand these principles and,with that understanding, be able to apply them to practice not only theembodiments described herein but also other embodiments that may come tomind in accordance with these principles.

The scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover all suchembodiments that may fall within the scope of the appended claims eitherliterally or under the doctrine of equivalents. The specificationdescribes exemplary embodiments that are not intended to limit theclaims. Features described in the specification but not recited in theclaims are not intended to limit the claims.

In the description and drawings, like or substantially similar elementsmay be labeled with the same reference numerals. Sometimes theseelements may be labeled with differing numbers, such as in cases inwhich such labeling facilitates a more clear description. Additionally,the drawings set forth herein are not necessarily drawn to scale, and insome instances proportions may have been exaggerated to more clearlydepict certain features. Such labeling and drawing practices do notnecessarily implicate an underlying substantive purpose.

Some features may be described using relative terms such as top, bottom,vertical, rightward, leftward, etc. These relative terms are only forreference with respect to the drawings and are not meant to limit thedisclosed embodiments. More specifically, the components depicted in thedrawings may be oriented in various directions in practice, and therelative orientation of features may vary accordingly.

As stated above, the present specification is intended to be taken as awhole and interpreted in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure as taught herein and understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art.

FIG. 1 illustrates one example embodiment of a cryogenic cylindercontrol system 10 of the present disclosure. The cryogenic cylindercontrol system 10 is fluidly connectable to a cryogenic cylinder 1000and usable to regulate the liquid and the gas stored within. The portionof the interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 that houses the liquid isreferred to herein as the liquid-housing portion 1000 a, and the portionof the interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 that houses the gas isreferred to herein as the gas-housing portion 1000 b. The volumes of theliquid- and gas-housing portions 1000 a and 1000 b may change as liquidand gas is added to and dispensed from the cryogenic cylinder 1000. Inthis embodiment, the cryogenic cylinder control system 10 includes apressure relief and vent module 100, a manual valve module 200, asolenoid valve module 300, a build-up coil 400, a pressure sensor 500, acontroller 510, and a fill valve 600.

The pressure relief and vent module 100 includes a pressure relief andvent module housing 105, a pressure relief valve 110 mounted to orintegrated into the pressure relief and vent module housing 105, apressure relief device 120 mounted to or integrated into the pressurerelief and vent module housing 105, a vent valve 130 mounted to orintegrated into the pressure relief and vent module housing 105, and avent receptacle 140 mounted to or integrated into the pressure reliefand vent module housing 105.

The pressure relief valve 110 may be any suitable reclosing pressurerelief valve that has an inlet and an outlet and that is movable betweenan open configuration and a closed configuration. In this embodiment,the pressure-relief valve 110 is a spring-loaded pressure relief valve.A suitable biasing member normally biases the pressure relief valve 110to the closed configuration to prevent fluid from flowing through thepressure relief valve 110 from its inlet to its outlet. When thepressure of the fluid at the inlet of the pressure relief valve 110exceeds a first pressure threshold P1, such as 275 pounds per squareinch (psi) (or any other suitable value), the fluid forces the pressurerelief valve 110 to move from the closed configuration to the openconfiguration to enable fluid to flow through the pressure relief valve110 from its inlet to its outlet. Afterwards, when the pressure of thefluid at the inlet falls below the first pressure threshold, the biasingmember forces the pressure relief valve 110 to move from the openconfiguration to the closed configuration to again prevent fluid fromflowing through the pressure relief valve 110 from its inlet to itsoutlet.

The pressure relief device 120 may be any suitable non-reclosingpressure relief device, such as a rupture disc. The pressure reliefdevice 120 has an inlet and, when intact, is configured to prevent fluidfrom flowing from the inlet through the pressure relief device 120. Whenthe pressure of the fluid at the inlet exceeds a second pressurethreshold P2 greater than the first pressure threshold P1, such as 350psi (or any other suitable value), the pressure relief device 120ruptures or otherwise permanently deforms to form an outlet to enablefluid to flow through the (ruptured) pressure relief device 120 from itsinlet to its outlet. In other embodiments, the pressure relief device120 may be any suitable pressure relief device, such as a reclosingpressure relief valve.

The vent valve 130 may be any suitable valve that has an inlet and anoutlet and that is movable between an open configuration and a closedconfiguration. In this embodiment, the vent valve 130 is a manuallyoperable valve that enables an operator to manually cause the vent valve130 to move between the open and closed configurations, such as byturning a hand-wheel. When the vent valve 130 is in the openconfiguration, fluid can flow through the vent valve 130 from its inletto its outlet. When the vent valve 130 is in the closed configuration,the vent valve 130 prevents fluid from flowing through the vent valve130 from its inlet to its outlet.

The vent receptacle 140 may be any suitable device that has an inlet andan outlet that is fluidly connectable to an external device (such as afilling station device) via a threaded connector, a quick-releaseconnector, or any other suitable connector.

The manual valve module 200 includes a manual valve module housing 205,a build-up valve 210 mounted to or integrated into the manual valvemodule housing 205, a check valve 220 mounted to or integrated into themanual valve module housing 205, a service valve 230 mounted to orintegrated into the manual valve module housing 205, and an excess flowvalve 240 mounted to or integrated into the manual valve module housing205.

The build-up valve 210 may be any suitable valve that has an inlet andan outlet and that is movable between an open configuration and a closedconfiguration, such as the valve described below with respect to FIGS.5-9B. In this embodiment, the build-up valve 210 is a manually operablevalve that enables an operator to manually cause the build-up valve 210to move between the open and closed configurations, such as by turning ahand-wheel or using a tool to rotate a component of the build-up valve210. When the build-up valve 210 is in the open configuration, fluid canflow through the build-up valve 210 from its inlet to its outlet. Whenthe build-up valve 210 is in the closed configuration, the build-upvalve 210 prevents fluid from flowing through the build-up valve 210from its inlet to its outlet.

The check valve 220 may be any suitable check valve, such as aspring-loaded check valve, that has an inlet and an outlet and that isconfigured to enable fluid to flow from its inlet to its outlet and toprevent fluid from flowing from its outlet to its inlet.

The service valve 230 may be any suitable valve that has an inlet and anoutlet and that is movable between an open configuration and a closedconfiguration, such as the valve described below with respect to FIGS.5-9B. In this embodiment, the service valve 230 is a manually operablevalve that enables an operator to manually cause the service valve 230to move between the open and closed configurations, such as by turning ahand-wheel or using a tool to rotate a component of the service valve230. When the service valve 230 is in the open configuration, fluid canflow through the service valve 230 from its inlet to its outlet. Whenthe service valve 230 is in the closed configuration, the service valve230 prevents fluid from flowing through the service valve 230 from itsinlet to its outlet.

The excess flow valve 240 is any suitable excess flow valve that has aninlet and an outlet. The excess flow valve 240 is configured to preventfluid flow from the inlet to the outlet (and vice-versa) when the flowrate of fluid through the excess flow valve 240 exceeds a presetthreshold. The outlet of the excess flow valve 240 is fluidlyconnectable to a user device (not shown) to enable distribution ofliquid or gas to the user device.

The solenoid valve module 300 includes a solenoid valve module body 305that defines a build-up solenoid valve inlet 305 a, an economizersolenoid valve outlet 305 b, and a combination build-up solenoid valveoutlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c. A build-up solenoidvalve 310 is mounted to the solenoid valve module body 305 between thebuild-up solenoid valve inlet 305 a and the combination build-upsolenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c. Aneconomizer solenoid valve 320 is mounted to the solenoid valve modulebody 305 between the combination build-up solenoid valve outlet andeconomizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c and the economizer solenoid valveoutlet 305 b.

The build-up solenoid valve 310 may be any suitable solenoid valve, suchas that shown in FIGS. 10-18D below, that has an open configuration anda closed configuration, is biased to the closed configuration, and isenergizable via electric current to move from the closed configurationto the open configuration. When the build-up solenoid valve 310 is inthe closed configuration, the build-up solenoid valve 310 prevents fluidfrom flowing through the solenoid valve module 300 from the build-upsolenoid valve inlet 305 a to the combination build-up solenoid valveoutlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c. When the build-upsolenoid valve 310 is in the open configuration, the build-up solenoidvalve 310 enables fluid to flow through the solenoid valve module 300from the build-up solenoid valve inlet 305 a to the combination build-upsolenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c.

The economizer solenoid valve 320 may be any suitable solenoid valve,such as that shown in FIGS. 10-18D below, that has an open configurationand a closed configuration, is biased to the closed configuration, andis energizable via electric current to move from the closedconfiguration to the open configuration. When the economizer solenoidvalve 320 is in the closed configuration, the economizer solenoid valve320 prevents fluid from flowing through the solenoid valve module 300from the combination build-up solenoid valve outlet and economizersolenoid valve inlet 305 c to the economizer solenoid valve outlet 305b. When the economizer solenoid valve 320 is in the open configuration,the economizer solenoid valve 320 enables fluid to flow through thesolenoid valve module 300 from the combination build-up solenoid valveoutlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c to the economizersolenoid valve outlet 305 b.

The build-up coil 400 is a suitable gas-vaporizing coil that has aninlet and an outlet and that is configured and positioned to convertliquid received from the cryogenic cylinder 1000 into gas. Morespecifically, the build-up coil 400 is positioned such that the liquiddrawn from the cryogenic cylinder is exposed to temperatures above itsboiling point such that the liquid vaporizes as it travels through thebuild-up coil 400.

The pressure sensor 500 may be any suitable pressure sensor positionedwithin the gas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior of the cryogeniccylinder 1000 and configured to sense the pressure PGAS of the gaswithin the gas-housing portion 1000 b.

The controller 510 includes a processor and a memory. The processor isconfigured to execute program code or instructions stored in the memoryto carry out certain functions, as described herein. The processor maybe one or more of: a general-purpose processor, a content-addressablememory, a digital-signal processor, an application-specific integratedcircuit, a field-programmable gate array, any suitable programmablelogic device, discrete gate, or transistor logic, discrete hardwarecomponents, and any other suitable processing device. The memory isconfigured to store, maintain, and provide data as needed to support thefunctionality of the cryogenic cylinder control system 10. For instance,in various embodiments, the memory stores program code or instructionsexecutable by the processor to carry out certain functions. The memorymay be any suitable data storage device, such as one or more of:volatile memory (e.g., RAM, which can include non-volatile RAM, magneticRAM, ferroelectric RAM, and any other suitable forms); non-volatilememory (e.g., disk memory, FLASH memory, EPROMs, EEPROMs,memristor-based non-volatile solid-state memory, etc.); unalterablememory (e.g., EPROMs); and read-only memory. In certain embodiments, thefunctionality of the controller 510 can be integrated in a vehicle'sengine control unit (ECU) module, in which case the cryogenic cylindercontrol system 10 does not include its own controller and instead relieson the vehicle's ECU module.

The fill valve 600 may be any suitable valve that has an inlet and anoutlet and that is movable between an open configuration and a closedconfiguration. In this embodiment, the fill valve 600 enables anoperator to cause the fill valve 600 to move between the open and closedconfigurations, such as by pushing a filling nozzle. When the fill valve600 is in the open configuration, fluid can flow through the fill valve600 from its inlet to its outlet. When the fill valve 600 is in theclosed configuration, the fill valve 600 prevents fluid from flowingthrough the fill valve 600 from its inlet to its outlet. Additionally,the fill valve 600 includes or is in fluid communication with a suitablecheck valve 605 configured to prevent fluid from flowing from thecylinder gas housing portion 1000 b to the outlet of the fill valve 600.

The pressure relief and vent module 100 is in fluid communication withthe gas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder1000 and is fluidly connectable to atmosphere and to an external device,as described below. Although not shown for clarity, the cryogeniccylinder control system 10 and the pressure relief and vent module 100include suitable connectors and fluid lines and/or define suitable fluidflow passages to enable the below-described fluidic connections.

More specifically, the inlet of the pressure relief valve 110 is influid communication with the gas-housing portion 1000 b of the interiorof the cryogenic cylinder 1000, and the outlet of the pressure reliefvalve 110 is fluidly connectable to atmosphere. The inlet of thepressure relief device 120 is in fluid communication with thegas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder1000, and the outlet formed when the pressure relief device 120 isruptured is in fluid communication with atmosphere. The inlet of thevent valve 130 is in fluid communication with the gas-housing portion1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000, and the outlet ofthe vent valve 130 is in fluid communication with the inlet of the ventreceptacle 140. The inlet of the vent receptacle 140 is in fluidcommunication with the outlet of the vent valve 130, and the outlet ofthe vent receptacle 140 is fluidly connectable to an external device(not shown).

The manual valve module 200 is in fluid communication with the liquid-and gas-housing portions 1000 a and 1000 b of the interior of thecryogenic cylinder 1000, the build-up coil 400, and the solenoid valvemodule 300, as described below. The manual valve module 200 is fluidlyconnectable to a user device to enable distribution of liquid or gas tothe user device, as described below. Although not shown for clarity, thecryogenic cylinder control system 10 and the manual valve module 200include suitable connectors and fluid lines and/or define suitable fluidflow passages to enable the below-described fluidic connections.

More specifically, the inlet of the build-up valve 210 is in fluidcommunication with the liquid-housing portion 1000 a of the interior ofthe cryogenic cylinder 1000, and the outlet of the build-up valve 210 isin fluid communication with the inlet of the build-up coil 400. Theinlet of the check valve 220 is in fluid communication with theliquid-housing portion 1000 a of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder1000, and the outlet of the check valve 220 is in fluid communicationwith both the inlet of the service valve 230 and the economizer solenoidvalve outlet 305 b of the economizer solenoid valve housing 305. Theinlet of the service valve 230 is in fluid communication with both theeconomizer solenoid valve outlet 305 b and the outlet of the check 220.The outlet of the service valve 230 is in fluid communication with theinlet of the excess flow valve 240. The outlet of the excess flow valve240 is fluidly connectable to the user device to enable distribution ofliquid or gas to the user device (as described below).

The solenoid valve module 300 is in fluid communication with thegas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder1000, the build-up coil 400, and the service valve module 200, asdescribed below. Although not shown for clarity, the cryogenic cylindercontrol system 10 and the solenoid valve module 300 include suitableconnectors and fluid lines and/or define suitable fluid flow passages toenable the below-described fluidic connections.

More specifically, the build-up solenoid valve inlet 305 a is in fluidcommunication with the outlet of the build-up coil 400. The economizersolenoid valve outlet 305 b is in fluid communication with both theoutlet of the check valve 220 and the inlet of the service valve 230.The combination build-up solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoidvalve inlet 305 c is in fluid communication with the gas-housing portion1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000. In otherembodiments, the build-up coil 400 is located between the build-upsolenoid valve 310 and the combination build-up solenoid valve outletand economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c.

The pressure sensor 500 is communicatively connected to the controller510 such that the pressure sensor 400 can send the sensed pressure PGASto the controller 510.

The controller 510 is operatively connected to the build-up solenoidvalve 310 and the economizer solenoid valve 320 to independently controlthose solenoid valves to move from their respective closedconfigurations to their respective open configurations based on thesensed pressure PGAS. Specifically, the controller 510 is operativelyconnected to the build-up solenoid valve 310 and the economizer solenoidvalve 320 to independently energize the coils of those solenoid valveswhen PGAS is at certain levels. The controller 510 is configured toenergize the coil of the build-up solenoid valve 310 (to cause it tomove to its open configuration) when the pressure PGAS<P3. In thisembodiment, P3 is 125 psi, though it may be any other suitable value inother embodiments. The controller 510 is configured to energize the coilof the economizer solenoid valve 320 (to cause it to move to its openconfiguration) when the pressure PGAS>P4. In this embodiment, P4 is 140psi, though it may be any other suitable value in other embodiments.Since P4>P3, in this embodiment the controller 510 is not configured toenergize the coils of the build-up and economizer solenoid valves 310and 320 at the same time, and the build-up and economizer solenoidvalves 310 and 320 thus cannot be in their respective openconfigurations at the same time.

The fill valve 600 is in fluid communication with the gas-housingportion 1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 via thecheck valve 605.

The components of the cryogenic cylinder control system 10 are attachedto the cryogenic cylinder 1000 via four connection ports welded to thecryogenic cylinder 1000. The fill valve 600 is attached to a firstconnection port, which is in fluid communication with the gas-housingportion 1000 b. The manual valve module 200 is attached to both secondand third connection ports, both of which are in fluid communicationwith the liquid-housing portion 1000 a. The solenoid valve module 300and the pressure relief and vent module 400 are attached to a t-junctionor other suitable branched component that's attached to the fourthconnection port, which is in fluid communication with the gas-housingportion 1000 b.

In operation, the pressure relief and vent module 100 is configured toprotect the cryogenic cylinder 1000 from over-pressurization and toenable an operator to manually vent the gas from the gas-housing portion1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000.

More specifically, the pressure relief valve 110 prevents gas fromescaping from the gas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior of thecryogenic cylinder 1000 to atmosphere through the pressure relief valve110 so long as PGAS<P1. Once PGAS exceeds P1, the gas forces thepressure relief valve 110 to move from its closed configuration to itsopen configuration. This fluidly connects the gas-housing portion 1000 bof the interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 to atmosphere and enablesthe gas to escape through the pressure relief valve 110 to atmosphere tolower the pressure in the gas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior ofthe cryogenic cylinder 1000.

Pre-rupture, the pressure relief device 120 prevents gas from escapingfrom the gas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior of the cryogeniccylinder 1000 to atmosphere through the pressure relief device 120 solong as PGAS<P2, where P2>P1. Once PGAS exceeds P2, the gas forces thepressure relief device 120 to rupture or permanently deform to form anoutlet. This fluidly connects the gas-housing portion 1000 b of theinterior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 to atmosphere and enables thegas to escape through the pressure relief device 120 to atmosphere tolower the pressure in the gas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior ofthe cryogenic cylinder 1000.

When in the closed configuration, the vent valve 130 prevents gas fromtraveling from the gas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior of thecryogenic cylinder 1000 to the vent receptacle 140. When in the openconfiguration, the vent valve 130 enables gas to travel from thegas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder1000 to the vent receptacle 140.

The vent receptacle 140 enables gas to flow therethrough either toatmosphere or into an external device connected to the vent receptacle.For instance, while liquid is being added to the cryogenic cylinder1000, the vent receptacle may be fluidly connected to a filling stationto enable the gas to be vented from the gas-housing portion 1000 b ofthe interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000.

In operation, components of the manual valve module 200 and the solenoidvalve module 300 form a pressure-building circuit that enables anoperator to increase the pressure PGAS of the gas in the gas-housingportion 1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 byvaporizing some of the liquid in the liquid-housing portion 1000 a ofthe interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 into gas via the build-upcoil 400 and to introduce the gas into the gas-housing portion 1000 b ofthe cryogenic cylinder 1000. Components of the manual valve module 200enable the operator to dispense liquid from the liquid-housing portion1000 a of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 to the external device. Componentsof the manual valve module 200 and components of the solenoid valvemodule 300 form an economizer circuit that enables an operator todispense gas from within the gas-housing portion 1000 b of the cryogeniccylinder 1000 to the external device.

As shown in FIG. 2, when PGAS<P3 and the operator desires to increasethe pressure of the gas in the gas-housing portion 1000 b of theinterior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000, the operator causes thebuild-up valve 210 to move from its closed configuration to its openconfiguration. This enables liquid to flow from the liquid-housingportion 1000 a of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 to the build-up coil 400.The liquid vaporizes as it moves through the build-up coil 400, and gasexits the build-up coil 400 and travels to the build-up solenoid valveinlet 305 a of the solenoid valve module body 305. Since PGAS<P3, thecontroller 510 energizes the coil of the build-up solenoid valve 310such that the build-up solenoid valve 310 is in its open configuration.Additionally, since PGAS<P3 this means PGAS<P4, and the controller 510does not energize the coil of the economizer solenoid valve 320 and theeconomizer solenoid valve 320 is in its closed configuration. The gasthus travels through the solenoid valve module 300 from the build-upsolenoid valve inlet 305 a to the combination build-up solenoid valveoutlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c. From there, the gastravels into the gas-housing portion 1000 b of the interior of thecryogenic cylinder 1000.

When the operator desires to dispense liquid or gas from the cryogeniccylinder 1000 into a user device, the operator causes the service valve210 to move from its closed configuration to its open configuration.

As shown in FIG. 3, if PGAS>P4 when the service valve 210 is in the openconfiguration, the service valve 210 dispenses gas from the gas-housingportion 1000 b of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000.Specifically, if PGAS>P4, the controller 510 energizes the coil of theeconomizer solenoid valve 320 such that the economizer solenoid valve320 is in its open configuration. Additionally, since PGAS>P4 this meansPGAS>P3, and the controller 510 does not energize the coil of thebuild-up solenoid valve 310 and the build-up solenoid valve 310 is inits closed configuration. Since the service valve 210 is in its openconfiguration, gas flows from the gas-housing portion 1000 b of theinterior of the cryogenic cylinder 1000 and through the solenoid valvemodule 300 from the combination build-up solenoid valve outlet andeconomizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c to the economizer solenoid valveoutlet 305 b. From there the gas travels through the service valve 230and the excess flow valve 240 into the user device. The check valve 220prevents the gas from flowing back into the cryogenic cylinder 1000.

As shown in FIG. 4, if PGAS<P4 when the service valve 210 is in the openconfiguration, the service valve 210 dispenses liquid from theliquid-housing portion 1000 a of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder1000. Specifically, since PGAS<P4, the controller 510 does not energizethe coil of the economizer solenoid valve 320 and the economizersolenoid valve 320 is in its closed configuration. Once the servicevalve 210 is in its open configuration, liquid flows from theliquid-housing portion 1000 a of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder1000 through the check valve 220 and into the service valve 230. Theliquid travels through the service valve 230 and the excess flow valve240 and into the user device.

Although not shown, the cryogenic cylinder control system 10 includes oris connectable to a power source, such as a battery, to power thecontroller 510 and the solenoid valves 310 and 320.

The cryogenic cylinder control system reduces the quantity of weldpoints to the cylinder from fourteen (as seen in various known cryogeniccylinder control systems) to four while reducing the quantity ofcomponents that must be assembled. This simplifies and speeds upinstallation by requiring significantly fewer welds. Fewer welds improvereliability and decreases down time by reducing the number of possiblefailure points. Further, by combining various components into modules,the cryogenic cylinder control system saves installation space andreduces the quantity of connectors needed to connect each independentcomponent. It also simplifies maintenance by enabling modules to beswapped out without cutting tubes or connectors welded to the cryogeniccylinder.

FIG. 5 shows a manually controlled globe valve 2000 that includes avalve body 2100, a lower spindle 2200, an upper spindle 2300, a biasingmember 2400, a seat disc 2500, a gland nut 2600, a first sealing member2700, and a second sealing member 2800. As described below, the globevalve 2000 is movable between a closed configuration and an openconfiguration.

As best shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the valve body 2100 includes a flowportion 2110 and a mounting portion 2120 transverse to the flow portion2110. The mounting portion 2120 has a longitudinal axis LAV. The flowportion 2110 includes multiple surfaces (not labeled) that togetherdefine a flow passage between an inlet 2110 a and an outlet 2110 b. Avalve seat 2112 is positioned within the flow passage between the inlet2110 a and the outlet 2110 b. The mounting portion 2120 includes athreaded cylindrical gland nut engaging surface 2122 and a threadedcylindrical lower spindle engaging surface 2124.

The threaded cylindrical gland nut engaging surface 2122 (partially)defines a gland nut receiving cavity, and the threaded cylindrical lowerspindle engaging surface 2124 (partially) defines a lower spindlereceiving cavity.

In this embodiment, the valve body 2100 is made of brass, such as UNSC37700, though it may be made of any suitable material.

As best shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the gland nut 2600 includes an upperannular surface 2602, a first inner cylindrical surface 2604, a firstannular sealing cavity defining surface 2606, a cylindrical sealingcavity defining surface 2608, a second annular sealing cavity definingsurface 2610, a second inner cylindrical surface 2612, a first innerannular surface 2614, a third inner cylindrical surface 2616, a taperedfirst sealing member engaging surface 2618, a first annular firstsealing member engaging surface 2620, a second annular first sealingmember engaging surface 2622, a cylindrical first sealing memberengaging surface 2624, a second inner annular surface 2626, a taperedinner surface 2628, a fourth inner cylindrical surface 2630, an annularvalve body engaging surface 2632, a cylindrical threaded valve bodyengaging surface 2634, and an outer cylindrical surface 2636.

The first inner cylindrical surface 2604 extends longitudinally betweenthe upper annular surface 2602 and the first annular sealing cavitydefining surface 2606. The first annular sealing cavity defining surface2606 extends transversely between the first inner cylindrical surface2604 and the cylindrical sealing cavity defining surface 2608. Thecylindrical sealing cavity defining surface 2608 extends longitudinallybetween the first annular sealing cavity defining surface 2606 and thesecond annular sealing cavity defining surface 2610. The second annularsealing cavity defining surface 2610 extends transversely between thecylindrical sealing cavity defining surface 2608 and the second innercylindrical surface 2612. The second inner cylindrical surface 2612extends longitudinally between the second annular sealing cavitydefining surface 2610 and the first inner annular surface 2614. Thefirst inner annular surface 2614 extends transversely between the secondinner cylindrical surface 2612 and the third inner cylindrical surface2616. The third inner cylindrical surface 2616 extends longitudinallybetween the first inner annular surface 2614 and the tapered firstsealing member engaging surface 2618. The tapered first sealing memberengaging surface 2618 extends angularly between the third innercylindrical surface 2616 and the first annular first sealing memberengaging surface 2620. The first annular first sealing member engagingsurface 2620 extends transversely between the tapered first sealingmember engaging surface 2618 and the second annular first sealing memberengaging surface 2622. The second annular first sealing member engagingsurface 2622 extends transversely between the first annular firstsealing member engaging surface 2620 and the cylindrical first sealingmember engaging surface 2624. The cylindrical first sealing memberengaging surface 2624 extends longitudinally between the second annularfirst sealing member engaging surface 2622 and the second inner annularsurface 2626. The second inner annular surface 2626 extends transverselybetween the cylindrical first sealing member engaging surface 2624 andthe tapered inner surface 2628. The tapered inner surface 2628 extendsangularly between the second inner annular surface 2626 and the fourthinner cylindrical surface 2630. The fourth inner cylindrical surface2630 extends longitudinally between the tapered inner surface 2628 andthe annular valve body engaging surface 2632. The annular valve bodyengaging surface 2632 extends transversely between the fourth innercylindrical surface 2630 and the threaded cylindrical valve bodyengaging surface 2634. The threaded cylindrical valve body engagingsurface 2634 extends longitudinally between the annular valve bodyengaging surface 2632 and the outer cylindrical surface 2636. The outercylindrical surface 2636 extends longitudinally between the threadedcylindrical valve body engaging surface 2634 and the upper annularsurface 2602.

The sealing-cavity defining surfaces 2606, 2608, and 2610 define anannular sealing member receiving cavity sized and shaped to partiallyreceive the second sealing member 2800 (as described below).

In this embodiment, the gland nut 2600 is made of brass, such as UNSC36000, though it may be made of any suitable material.

As best shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the upper spindle 2300 includes atool-engaging portion 2310, a cylindrical portion 2320, an annularportion 2330, and a lower spindle-engaging portion 2340. The cylindricalportion 2320 is between the tool-engaging portion 2310 and the annularportion 2330, and the annular portion 2330 is between the cylindricalportion 2320 and the lower spindle-engaging portion 2340.

The tool-engaging portion 2310 includes multiple circumferentiallyspaced flats 2312. Similarly, the lower spindle-engaging portion 2340includes multiple circumferentially spaced flats 2342. Surfaces 2314 a,2314 b, and 2314 c define a bore that enables an operator to attach ahand wheel to the upper spindle 2300. Surfaces 2344 and 2346 define abiasing member receiving bore sized to receive part of the biasingmember 2400.

In this embodiment, the upper spindle 2300 is made of brass, such as UNSC36000, though it may be made of any suitable material.

As best shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the lower spindle 2200 includes athreaded portion 2210 and a sealing portion 2220. The threaded portionincludes a threaded cylindrical valve body engaging surface 2212. Thesealing portion includes three seat disc defining surfaces 2222, 2224,and 2226 that define a seat disc receiving cavity sized and shaped toreceive the seat disc 2500 (as described below). An upper spindleengaging surface 2230 defines an upper spindle receiving bore sized andshaped to receive the upper spindle 2300 (as described below).

In this embodiment, the lower spindle 2200 is made of brass, such as UNSC36000, though it may be made of any suitable material.

FIG. 5 shows the assembled globe valve 2000 in the open configuration.The threaded cylindrical valve body engaging surface 2212 of the lowerspindle 2200 is threadably engaged to the threaded cylindrical lowerspindle engaging surface 2124 of the valve body 2100. The lowerspindle-engaging portion 2340 of the upper spindle 2300 is received inthe upper spindle receiving bore defined by upper spindle engagingsurface 2230 of the lower spindle 2200. The biasing member 2400—here acompression spring—is partly disposed in the biasing member-receivingbore defined by the upper spindle 2300 such that the biasing member 2400extends between upper and lower spindles 2300 and 2200. The elastomericseat disc 2500 is disposed within the seat disc receiving cavity definedin the lower spindle 2200.

The cylindrical threaded valve body engaging surface 2634 of the glandnut 2600 is threadably engaged to the threaded cylindrical gland nutengaging surface 2122 of the valve body 2100. The first sealing member2700 is made of an elastomeric material and is disposed around thecylindrical portion 2320 of the upper spindle 2300. The biasing member2400 forces the upper spindle 2300 upward such that the first sealingmember 2700 sealingly engages the first sealing member engaging surfaces2618, 2620, 2622, and 2624. The second sealing member 2800 is disposedin the second sealing member channel defined by the gland nut 2600 andsealingly engages the upper spindle 2300.

As noted above, the globe valve 2000 is movable between an openconfiguration (FIG. 5) and a closed configuration (not shown). When inthe closed configuration, the seat disc 2500 sealingly engages the valveseat 2112 of the valve body 2100 and prevents fluid from flowing fromthe inlet 2110 a to the outlet 2110 b. When in the open configuration,the seat disc 2500 is disengaged from the valve seat 2112 and enablesfluid to flow from the inlet 2110 a to the outlet 2110 b.

To move the globe valve 2000 between the closed configuration and theopen configuration, an operator rotates the upper spindle 2300 relativeto the gland nut 2600 and the valve body 2100. The operator can do soby, for instance, engaging the flats 2312 of the tool engaging portion2310 of the upper spindle 2300 with a tool, such as a wrench, androtating the tool. In another example, the operator can mount a handwheel to the tool engaging portion 2310 of the upper spindle 2300.

More particularly, when the globe valve 2000 is in the openconfiguration, rotation of the upper spindle 2300 in a first directioncauses the globe valve 2000 to move to the closed configuration.Specifically, rotation of the upper spindle 2300 in the first directioncauses the upper spindle 2300 and the lower spindle 2200—which ismatingly engaged to the upper spindle 2300 via the upper spindleengaging surface 2230—to rotate relative to the valve body 2100, thegland nut 2600, the first sealing member 2700, and the second sealingmember 2800. This causes the lower spindle 2200 to begin unthreadingfrom the threaded cylindrical lower spindle engaging surface 2124 of thevalve body 2100 and moving longitudinally away from the upper spindle2300. The biasing member 2400 exerts a biasing force on the upperspindle 2300 to ensure it remains sealingly engaged to the gland nut2600 via the first sealing member 2700. The operator stops rotating theupper spindle 2300 once the seat disc 2500 sealingly engages the valveseat 2112 of the valve body 2100, at which point the globe valve 2000 isin the closed configuration.

Conversely, when the globe valve 2000 is in the closed configuration,rotation of the upper spindle 2300 in a second direction different fromthe first direction causes the globe valve 2000 to move to the openconfiguration. Specifically, rotation of the upper spindle 2300 in thesecond direction causes the upper spindle 2300 and the lower spindle2200—which is matingly engaged to the upper spindle 2300 via the upperspindle engaging surface 2230—to rotate relative to the valve body 2100,the gland nut 2600, the first sealing member 2700, and the secondsealing member 2800. This causes the lower spindle 2200 to beginthreading back onto the threaded cylindrical lower spindle engagingsurface 2124 of the valve body 2100 and moving longitudinally toward theupper spindle 2300. The biasing member 2400 exerts a biasing force onthe upper spindle 2300 to ensure it remains sealingly engaged to thegland nut 2600 via the first sealing member 2700. The operator stopsrotating the upper spindle 2300 once the lower spindle 2200 contacts theupper spindle 2300, at which point the seat disc 2500 is disengaged fromthe valve seat and the globe valve 2000 is in the closed configuration.

Positioning the biasing member between the upper and lower spindlesenables the biasing member to ensure adequate sealing. Specifically, thebiasing force imparted to the upper spindle ensures the first sealingmember sealingly engages the gland nut. The biasing force imparted tothe lower spindle helps the seat disc sealingly engage the valve seat,particularly at cryogenic temperatures. Specifically, at cryogenictemperature the seat disc may shrink, which could cause leakage betweenthe seat disc/valve seat interface when the globe valve is in the closedconfiguration. The biasing force imparted to the lower spindlecompensates for the shrinkage to ensure proper sealing even at cryogenictemperature.

FIG. 10 shows an electrically controlled solenoid valve 3000 usable tocontrol the flow of fluid through a valve body 4000. The solenoid valve3000 includes a coil assembly 3100, a cartridge 3200, a nut 3300, aplunger 3400, a seat disc holder 3500, a retainer 3600, a seat disc3700, a sealing member 3800, and a biasing member 3900. The solenoidvalve 3000 has a longitudinal axis LAS.

As best shown in FIG. 11, the coil assembly 3100 includes a coil housing3100 a and an electric coil (not show within the coil housing 3100 a.

The coil housing 3100 a includes an outer surface 3102, an innercylindrical surface 3104, a first upper surface 3106, an second uppersurface 3108, a third upper surface 3110, a first lower surface 3112, asecond lower surface 3114, and a third lower surface 3116.

The outer surface 3102 extends longitudinally between the first uppersurface 3106 and the first lower surface 3112. The first upper surface3106 extends transversely between the outer surface 3102 and the secondupper surface 3108. The second upper surface 3108 extends longitudinallybetween the first upper surface 3106 and the third upper surface 3110.The third upper surface 3110 extends transversely between the secondupper surface 3108 and the inner cylindrical surface 3104. The innercylindrical surface 3104 extends longitudinally between the third uppersurface 3110 and the third lower surface 3116. The third lower surface3116 extends transversely between the inner cylindrical surface 3104 andthe second lower surface 3114. The second lower surface 3114 extendslongitudinally between the third lower surface 3116 and the first lowersurface 3112. The first lower surface 3112 extends transversely betweenthe second lower surface 3114 and the outer surface 3102.

The inner cylindrical surface 3104 defines a cartridge-receiving boresized and shaped to receive part of the cartridge 3200.

In this embodiment, the coil housing 3100 a is made of plastic, thoughit may be made of any suitable material. The electric coil is made ofcopper wire (or any other suitable material) and is electricallyconnectable to a power source such that the power source can causeelectric current to flow through the coil, thereby causing the coil togenerate an electromagnetic force. In certain embodiments, the electriccoil is a 10 to 12 Watt, 12 or 24 Volt DC coil.

As best shown in FIG. 12, the cartridge 3200 includes an outer circularsurface 3201, a first outer cylindrical surface 3202 on whichnut-engaging threads 3202 a are disposed, a second outer cylindricalsurface 3204, a third outer cylindrical surface 3206, a first annularcoil assembly engaging surface 3208, a cylindrical coil assemblyengaging surface 3210, a second annular coil assembly engaging surface3212, a fourth outer cylindrical surface 3214, a first outer annularsurface 3216, a fifth outer cylindrical surface 3218, an annular valvebody sealing surface 3220, a sixth outer cylindrical surface 3222 onwhich valve-body-engaging threads 3222 a are disposed, a second outerannular surface 3224, a cylindrical seat disc holder engaging surface3226, a first inner annular surface 3228, a inner cylindrical surface3230, a annular retainer engaging surface 3232, a cylindrical plungerstem engaging surface 3234, and an circular plunger stem engagingsurface 3236.

The first outer cylindrical surface 3202 extends longitudinally betweenthe outer circular surface 3201 and the second outer cylindrical surface3204. The second outer cylindrical surface 3204 extends longitudinallybetween (and is radially recessed relative to) the first outercylindrical surface 3202 and the third outer cylindrical surface 3206.The third outer cylindrical surface 3206 extends longitudinally betweenthe second outer cylindrical surface 3204 and the first annular coilassembly engaging surface 3208. The first annular coil assembly engagingsurface 3208 extends transversely between the third outer cylindricalsurface 3206 and the cylindrical coil assembly engaging surface 3210.The cylindrical coil assembly engaging surface 3210 extendslongitudinally between the first annular coil assembly engaging surface3208 and the second annular coil assembly engaging surface 3212. Thesecond annular coil assembly engaging surface 3212 extends transverselybetween the cylindrical coil assembly engaging surface 3210 and thefourth outer cylindrical surface 3214. The fourth outer cylindricalsurface 3214 extends longitudinally between the second annular coilassembly engaging surface 3212 and the first outer annular surface 3216.The first outer annular surface 3216 extends transversely between thefourth outer cylindrical surface 3214 and the fifth outer cylindricalsurface 3218. The fifth outer cylindrical surface 3218 extendslongitudinally between the first outer annular surface 3216 and theannular valve body sealing surface 3220. The annular valve body sealingsurface 3220 extends transversely between the fifth outer cylindricalsurface 3218 and the sixth outer cylindrical surface 3222. The sixthouter cylindrical surface 3222 extends longitudinally between theannular valve body sealing surface 3220 and the second outer annularsurface 3224. The second outer annular surface 3224 extends transverselybetween the sixth outer cylindrical surface 3222 and the cylindricalseat disc holder engaging surface 3226. The cylindrical seat disc holderengaging surface 3226 extends longitudinally between the second outerannular surface 3224 and the first inner annular surface 3228. The firstinner annular surface 3228 extends transversely between the cylindricalseat disc holder engaging surface 3226 and the inner cylindrical surface3230. The inner cylindrical surface 3230 extends longitudinally betweenthe first inner annular surface 3228 and the annular retainer engagingsurface 3232. The annular retainer engaging surface 3232 extendstransversely between the inner cylindrical surface 3230 and thecylindrical plunger stem engaging surface 3234. The cylindrical plungerstem engaging surface 3234 extends longitudinally between the annularretainer engaging surface 3232 and the circular plunger stem engagingsurface 3236.

The cylindrical seat disc holder engaging surface 3226, the first innerannular surface 3228, the inner cylindrical surface 3230, and theannular retainer engaging surface 3232 form a plunger, retainer, andseat disc holder receiving cavity sized and shaped to receive the headand at least part of the stem of the plunger 3400, the retainer 3600,and at least part of the seat disc holder 3500. The cylindrical plungerstem engaging surface 3234 and the circular plunger stem engagingsurface 3236 form a stem receiving bore sized and shaped to receive partof the stem of the plunger 3400.

In this embodiment, the cartridge 3200 is made of a ferromagneticmaterial, such as UNS S430000.

As best shown in FIG. 13, the nut 3300 includes an outer circularsurface 3302, an outer hexagonal surface 3304, an upper annular surface3306, an outer cylindrical surface 3308, a annular coil assembly housingengaging surface 3310, a first sealing-cavity-defining surface 3312, asecond sealing-cavity-defining surface 3314, a thirdsealing-cavity-defining surface 3316, a lower annular surface 3318, athreaded cylindrical inner surface 3320, and an inner circular surface3322.

The outer hexagonal surface 3304 extends longitudinally between theouter circular surface 3302 and the upper annular surface 3306. Theupper annular surface 3306 extends transversely between the outerhexagonal surface 3304 and the outer cylindrical surface 3308. The outercylindrical surface 3308 extends longitudinally between the upperannular surface 3306 and the annular coil assembly housing engagingsurface 3310. The annular coil assembly housing engaging surface 3310extends transversely between the outer cylindrical surface 3308 and thefirst sealing-cavity-defining surface 3312. The firstsealing-cavity-defining surface 3312 extends longitudinally between theannular coil assembly housing engaging surface 3310 and the secondsealing-cavity-defining surface 3314. The second sealing-cavity-definingsurface 3314 extends transversely between the firstsealing-cavity-defining surface 3312 and the thirdsealing-cavity-defining surface 3316. The third sealing-cavity-definingsurface 3316 extends longitudinally between the secondsealing-cavity-defining surface 3314 and the lower annular surface 3318.The lower annular surface 3318 extends transversely between the thirdsealing-cavity-defining surface 3316 and the threaded cylindrical innersurface 3320. The threaded cylindrical inner surface 3320 extendslongitudinally between the lower annular surface 3318 and the innercircular surface 3322.

The sealing-cavity defining surfaces 3312, 3314, and 3316 define anannular sealing member receiving cavity sized and shaped to partiallyreceive the sealing member 3800 (as described below). The threadedcylindrical inner surface 3320 and the inner circular surface 3322define a cartridge-receiving bore sized and shaped to receive andthreadably engage part of the cartridge 3200 (as described below).

In this embodiment, the nut 3300 is made of brass, such as UNS C36000,though it may be made of any suitable material.

As best shown in FIG. 14, the plunger 3400 includes a stem 3410 and ahead 3420 at one end of the stem 3410. The other end 3412 of the stem3410 is free. A cylindrical surface 3414 a and a circular surface 3414 bdefine a biasing member-receiving bore that extends longitudinallyinward from the free end 3412. The biasing member-receiving bore issized and shaped to receive part of the biasing member 3900. A firstlength L1 of the stem 3410 extending from the free end 3412 toward thehead 3420 has a first outer diameter Dia1, which is 8 millimeters inthis embodiment but may be any suitable value. A second length L2 of thestem 3410 extending from the head 3420 toward the free end 3412 has asecond outer diameter Dia2 that is smaller than Dia1. In thisembodiment, Dia2 is 7.6 millimeters but may be any suitable value. Thehead 3420 includes a circular seat-disc-holder contact surface 3422 andan annular retainer-contact surface 3424.

In this embodiment, the plunger 3400 is made of a ferromagneticmaterial, such as UNS S430000.

As best shown in FIG. 15, the seat disc holder 3500 includes an outersurface 3502 having a cylindrical cartridge engaging portion and atapered lower portion, a first outer annular surface 3504, a firstcylindrical retainer engaging surface 3506, an annular retainer seatingsurface 3508, a second cylindrical retainer engaging surface 3510, anannular plunger contact surface 3512, a cylindrical inner surface 3514,an annular seat disc engaging surface 3516, a cylindrical seat discengaging surface 3518, and a second annular outer surface 3520.

The outer surface 3502 extends longitudinally between the first outerannular surface 3504 and the second annular outer surface 3520. Thefirst outer annular surface 3504 extends transversely between the outersurface 3502 and the first cylindrical retainer engaging surface 3506.The first cylindrical retainer engaging surface 3506 extendslongitudinally between the first outer annular surface 3504 and theannular retainer seating surface 3508. The annular retainer seatingsurface 3508 extends transversely between the first cylindrical retainerengaging surface 3506 and the second cylindrical retainer engagingsurface 3510. The second cylindrical retainer engaging surface 3510extends longitudinally between the annular retainer seating surface 3508and the annular plunger contact surface 3512. The annular plungercontact surface 3512 extends transversely between the second cylindricalretainer engaging surface 3510 and the cylindrical inner surface 3514.The cylindrical inner surface 3514 extends longitudinally between theannular plunger contact surface 3512 and the annular seat disc engagingsurface 3516. The annular seat disc engaging surface 3516 extendstransversely between the cylindrical inner surface 3514 and thecylindrical seat disc engaging surface 3518. The cylindrical seat discengaging surface 3518 extends longitudinally between the annular seatdisc engaging surface 3516 and the second annular outer surface 3520.The second annular outer surface 3520 extends transversely between thecylindrical seat disc engaging surface 3518 and the outer surface 3502.

The first cylindrical retainer engaging surface 3506, the annularretainer seating surface 3508, the second cylindrical retainer engagingsurface 3510, and the annular plunger contact surface 3512 form aretainer and plunger receiving cavity sized and shaped to receive theretainer 3600 and the head and part of the stem of the plunder 3400. Theannular seat disc engaging surface 3516, the cylindrical seat discengaging surface 3518, and the second annular outer surface 3520 definea seat-disc-receiving bore sized and shaped to receive the seat disc3700.

In this embodiment, the seat disc holder 3500 is made of stainlesssteel, such as AISI 304, though in other embodiments it may be made ofany suitable material.

As best shown in FIG. 16, the retainer 3600 includes a first annularportion 3610 and a second annular portion 3630. The outer diameter ofthe first annular portion is less than the outer diameter of the secondannular portion such that part of the second annular portion 3630 formsan annular shoulder 3620. A cylindrical surface 3640 defines a plungerreceiving bore sized and shaped to receive part of the stem of theplunger 3400.

In this embodiment, the retainer 3600 is made of a ferromagneticmaterial, such as USN S430000.

As best shown in FIG. 17, the seat disc 3700 includes a firstcylindrical portion 3710 connected to a second cylindrical portion 3720.The diameter of the first cylindrical portion 3710 is greater than thediameter of the second cylindrical portion 3720.

In this embodiment, the seat disc 3700 is made of an elastomericmaterial, such as polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), or any othersuitable material.

FIGS. 10 and 18A-18D show a solenoid valve assembly including thesolenoid valve 3000 assembled and threadably attached to the valve body4000. More specifically, the solenoid valve 3000 is threadably attachedto the valve body 4000 via the valve-body-engaging threads 3222 a of thecartridge 3200. A valve body sealing member 5000, such as an O-ring, iscompressed between the valve body 4000 and the annular valve bodysealing surface 3220 of the cartridge 3200 to prevent fluid leakagethrough this interface between the valve body 4000 and the cartridge3200.

The coil assembly 3100 is mounted to the cartridge 3200. Specifically,part of the cartridge 3200 is received in the cartridge-receiving boredefined by the coil housing 3100 a. The threaded cylindrical innersurface 3320 of the nut 3300 is threadably engaged to the nut-engagingthreads 3202 a of the cartridge 3200 to compress the sealing member 3800against the first upper surface 3106 of the coil housing 3100 a. The nut3300 compresses the coil housing 3100 a against the first and secondouter annular surfaces 3208 and 3212 of the cartridge 3200 to retain thecoil assembly 3100 in place relative to the cartridge 3200.

Part of the stem 3410 of the plunger 3400 is slidably received in theplunger-receiving bore defined by the cartridge 3200. The biasing member3900—here a compression spring—is partly disposed in the biasingmember-receiving bore defined by the plunger 3400 such that the biasingmember 3900 extends between the circular surface 3414 b of the plunger3400 and the circular plunger stem engaging surface 3236 of thecartridge 3200.

The seat disc holder 3500 is slidably received in the plunger, retainer,and seat disc holder receiving cavity defined by the cartridge 3200 suchthat the head 3420 and part of the stem 3410 of the plunger 3400 isreceived in the retainer and plunger receiving cavity defined by theseat disc holder 3500.

The retainer 3600 is received in the retainer and plunger receivingcavity defined by the seat disc holder 3500 such that the stem 3410 ofthe plunger 3400 extends through the plunger receiving bore defined bythe retainer 3600 and the annular shoulder 3620 contacts the annularretainer seating surface 3508 of the seat disc holder 3500. The retainer3600 is held in place via an interference fit between the second annularportion 3630 of the retainer 3600 and the first cylindrical retainerengaging surface 3506 of the seat disc holder and an interference fitbetween the first annular portion 3610 of the retainer 3600 and thesecond cylindrical retainer engaging surface 3510 of the seat discholder 3500. In other embodiments, the retainer is held in place bycrimping the upper end of the seat disc holder.

The seat disc 3700 is received in the seat disc receiving bore definedby the seat disc holder 3500. The seat disc 3700 is held in place via aninterference fit between the perimeter of the first cylindrical portion3710 of the seat disc 3700 and the cylindrical seat disc engagingsurface 3518 of the seat disc holder 3500. In other embodiments, theseat disc is held in place by crimping the lower end of the seat discholder.

As best shown in FIGS. 18A-18D and described below, the solenoid valve3000 is movable from a closed configuration (FIGS. 10 and 18A) to afirst intermediate configuration (FIG. 18B), from the first intermediateposition to a second intermediate configuration (FIG. 18C), and from thesecond intermediate configuration to and an open configuration (FIG.18D). More specifically, the solenoid valve 3000 is biased to its closedconfiguration (i.e., is a normally closed valve) and configured to, whenits coil is energized, move to its open configuration via a two-stepprocess (i.e., through the first and second intermediateconfigurations). When in the closed configuration, the solenoid valve3000 prevents fluid from flowing from an inlet of the valve body 4000(defined by surface 4100) to an outlet of the valve body 4000 (definedby surface 4200).

FIG. 18A shows the solenoid valve 3000 in the closed configuration. Inthe closed configuration, the biasing member 3900 biases the plunger3400 away from the coil assembly 3100. The circular seat-disc-holdercontact surface 3422 of the head 3420 of the plunger 3400 contacts theannular plunger contact surface 3512 of the seat disc holder 3500 andpushes the seat disc holder 3500 away from the coil assembly 3100. Thiscauses the second cylindrical portion 3720 of the seat disc 3700 tosealingly engage the valve seat 4300 of the valve body 4000, whichprevents fluid from flowing from the inlet of the valve body 4000 to theoutlet of the valve body 4000. So when the solenoid valve 3000 is in theclosed configuration, the plunger 3400 is in a first plunger position,the seat disc holder 3500 is in a first seat disc holder position, theretainer 3600 is in a first retainer position, and the seat disc 3700 isin a first seat disc position. Additionally, fluid introduced at theinlet of the valve body 4000 fills certain gaps within the solenoidvalve 3000 and pressurizes the solenoid valve 3000 to the closedconfiguration.

When the solenoid valve 3000 is in the closed configuration, the annularretainer-contact surface 3424 is a distance D1, which is 3.5 millimetersin this embodiment but may be any suitable value, from the underside ofthe first annular portion 3610 of the retainer 3600. Additionally, theupper surface of the second annular portion 3630 of the retainer 3600 isa distance D2, which is 2.9 millimeters in this embodiment but may beany suitable value, from the annular retainer engaging surface 3232 ofthe cartridge 3200. Further, the end 3412 of the stem 3410 of theplunger 3400 is a distance D3, which is 4.0 millimeters in thisembodiment but may be any suitable value, from the circular plunger stemengaging surface 3236 of the cartridge 3200.

When the coil is energized, the coil generates an electromagnetic forcethat draws the ferromagnetic plunger 3400 toward the coil assembly 3100and against the biasing force of the biasing member 3900 until thesolenoid valve 3000 reaches a first intermediate configuration shown inFIG. 18B. Specifically, the plunger 3400 has moved relative to the coilassembly 3100, the cartridge 3200, the nut 3300, the seat disc holder3500, the retainer 3600, the seat disc 3700, and the valve body 4000such that: (1) the annular retainer-contact surface 3424 contacts theunderside of the first annular portion 3610 of the retainer 3600; and(2) the end 3412 of the stem 3410 of the plunger 3400 is a distance D4,which is 0.5 millimeters (based on D1 and D3), from the circular plungerstem engaging surface 3236 of the cartridge 3200. So when the solenoidvalve 3000 is in the first intermediate configuration, the plunger 3400is in a second plunger position (different from the first plungerposition), the seat disc holder 3500 is in the first seat disc holderposition, the retainer 3600 is in the first retainer position, and theseat disc 3700 is in the first seat disc position.

After the solenoid valve 3000 reaches the first intermediateconfiguration (i.e., after the plunger 3400 moves to the positiondescribed above), the magnetic force acting on the plunger 3400increases (because it's closer to the coil) and causes further movementof the plunger 3400 and movement of the seat disc holder 3500 until thesolenoid valve 3000 reaches a second intermediate configuration shown inFIG. 18C. Specifically, the plunger 3400 has moved relative to the coilassembly 3100, the cartridge 3200, the nut 3300, and the valve body 4000such that the end 3412 of the stem 3410 of the plunger 3400 contacts thecircular plunger stem engaging surface 3236 of the cartridge 3200. Indoing so, the plunger 3400 pulls the retainer 3600 and attached seatdisc holder 3500 and seat disc 3700 with it such that: (1) the uppersurface of the second annular portion 3630 of the retainer 3600 is adistance D5, which is 2.4 millimeters in this embodiment (based on D2and D3), from the annular retainer engaging surface 3232 of thecartridge 3200; and (2) the seat disc 3700 disengages the valve seat4300. So when the solenoid valve 3000 is in the second intermediateconfiguration, the plunger 3400 is in a third plunger position(different from the first and second plunger positions), the seat discholder 3500 is in a second seat disc holder position (different from thefirst seat disc holder position), the retainer 3600 is in a secondretainer position (different from the first retainer position), and theseat disc 3700 is in a second seat disc position (different from thefirst seat disc position).

Once the seat disc 3700 disengages the valve seat 4300, the fluid at theinlet of the valve body 4000 stops pressurizing the solenoid valve tothe closed configuration (or otherwise reduces the amount ofpressurization) and begins flowing from the inlet of the valve body 4000to the outlet of the valve body 4000. This combined with the movement ofthe retainer 3600 toward the coil assembly 3100 causes theelectromagnetic force to draw the ferromagnetic retainer 3600 toward thecoil assembly 3100 until the solenoid valve reaches the openconfiguration shown in FIG. 18D. Specifically, the retainer 3600 hasmoved relative to the coil assembly 3100, the cartridge 3200, the nut3300, the plunger 3400, and the valve body 4000 such that the uppersurface of the second annular portion 3630 of the retainer 3600 contactsthe annular retainer engaging surface 3232 of the cartridge 3200. Indoing so, the retainer 3600 pulls the seat disc 3500 and the seat disc3700 with it to further separate the seat disc 3700 from the valve seat4300. So when the solenoid valve 3000 is in the closed configuration,the plunger 3400 is in the third plunger position, the seat disc holder3500 is in a third seat disc holder position (different from the firstand second seat disc holder positions), the retainer 3600 is in a thirdretainer position (different from the first and second retainerpositions), and the seat disc 3700 is in a third seat disc position(different from the first and second seat disc positions).

Based on the distances D1, D2, and D3, in this example embodiment themaximum stroke of the solenoid valve is 2.9 millimeters, though this mayvary in other embodiments by changing the size and/or positioning ofcertain components.

The fact that the solenoid valve is a direct-drive solenoid valverenders it simpler in construction and quicker to open than apilot-driven solenoid valve. Further, the configuration that enablesthree-step opening enables the use of a small solenoid coil thatconsumes a low amount of energy as compared to prior art direct-drivesolenoid valves.

FIG. 19 illustrates another embodiment of the pressure relief and ventmodule 100 b. The pressure relief and vent module 100 b includes apressure relief and vent module housing 110 b that defines: (1) a firstpressure relief device port 130 b; (2) a second pressure relief deviceport 140 b; (3) a pressure gauge port 150 b; (4) a cylinder inlet port160 b; (5) a pressure build inlet port 170 b; and (6) a third pressurerelief device port 180 b. A suitable vent valve 120 b is integrated intothe pressure relief and vent module housing 110 b.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 19, a fluid inlet tube 161 b isconnected to an in fluid communication with the cylinder inlet port 160b and extends from the pressure relief and vent module housing 110 b. Anexample pressure relief valve 181 b is connected to and in fluidcommunication with the third pressure relief port 180 b, as shown in theexample of FIG. 19. Additionally, in the example of FIG. 19, an examplepressure gauge 151 b is connected to and in fluid communication with thepressure gauge port 150 b. It should be understood that various otherfluid control devices (e.g., valves, plugs, gauges, tubes, reliefdevices, etc.) may be connected to any of the ports 130 b-180 bdepending on a given fluid control application (e.g., conveying liquidnatural gas, storing liquid nitrogen, storing compressed carbon dioxide,etc.). This pressure relief and vent module 100 b may be used with anysuitable cryogenic cylinder including a pressure-build circuit.

The first, second, and third pressure relief ports 130 b, 140 b, 180 b,the pressure gauge port 150 b, the cylinder inlet port 160 b, and thevent valve 120 b are in fluid communication with one another. Thepressure build inlet port 170 b is in fluid communication with the ventvalve 120 b. Thus, the pressure build inlet port 170 b is in selectivefluid communication with the first, second, and third pressure reliefports 130 b, 140 b, 180 b, the pressure gauge port 150 b, and thecylinder inlet port 160 b via the vent valve 120 b.

In a first example (e.g., for liquid natural gas (LNG) applications), afirst pressure relief device (such as a pressure relief valve) may bethreadably attached to the first pressure relief port 130 b to fluidlyconnect the first pressure relief device with the interior of thepressure relief and vent module housing 110 b. A second pressure reliefdevice (such as a burst disc) may be threadably attached to the secondpressure relief port 140 b to fluidly connect the second pressure reliefdevice with the interior of the pressure relief and vent nodule housing110 b. Further, the example pressure gauge 151 b may be threadablyattached to the pressure gauge port 150 b fluidly connect the pressuregauge 151 b with the interior of the pressure relief and vent modulehousing 110 b. Additionally, the pressure build inlet port 170 b may beusable to fluidly connect the interior of the pressure relief and ventmodule housing 110 b with a pressure-build circuit. Also, the cylinderinlet port 160 b may be fluidly connected to a gas-housing portion ofthe interior of the cryogenic cylinder via the fluid inlet tube 161 b.

In operation, in the first example, when the pressure-build circuit isdeactivated and the vent valve 120 b is closed, the fluid inlet tube 161b receives pressurized gas from the gas-housing portion of the interiorof the cryogenic cylinder, and the pressure relief and vent modulehousing 110 b routes the gas to the ports described above. Opening thevent valve 120 b will enable the gas to enter the pressure build inletport 170 b, but a check valve (not shown) will prevent the gas fromentering the pressure-build circuit. When the pressure-build circuit isactivated, gas enters the pressure build inlet port 170 b and travelsthrough the fluid inlet tube 161 b into the gas-housing portion of thecryogenic cylinder to increase the pressure of the gas housed there.

In a second example (e.g., in a standard fluid control application, aliquid nitrogen application, etc.), a pressure building circuit may beattached to the third pressure relief port 180 b to fluidly connect thepressure building circuit with the interior of the pressure relief andvent module housing 110 b. Thus, the third pressure relief port 180 bserves as a pressure build inlet. Further, the first and second pressurerelief ports 1130 b, 140 b, the pressure gauge port 150 b, and thecylinder inlet port 160 b may be respectively fluidly connected to:first and second pressure relief devices, the pressure gauge 151 b, andthe gas-housing portion of the interior of the cryogenic cylinder.Additionally, the pressure build inlet port 170 b may be fluidlyconnected to the atmosphere. Thus, the vent valve 120 b may vent fluidfrom any of the ports 130 b, 140 b, 150 b, 160 b, 180 b to theatmosphere via the pressure build inlet port 170 b.

In operation, in the second example, when the pressure-build circuit isdeactivated and the vent valve 120 b is closed, the fluid inlet tube 161b receives pressurized gas from the gas-housing portion of the interiorof the cryogenic cylinder, and the pressure relief and vent modulehousing 110 b routes the gas to the ports described above. The gas willenter the third pressure relief port 180 b, but a check valve (notshown) will prevent it from entering the pressure-build circuit. Openingthe vent valve 120 b will vent gas to the atmosphere via the pressurebuild inlet port 170 b. When the pressure-build circuit is activated bya valve not shown, gas enters the third pressure relief port 180 b andtravels through the fluid inlet tube 161 b into the gas-housing portionof the cryogenic cylinder to increase the pressure of the gas housedthere.

In either of these first or second examples, the first and secondpressure relief devices and the pressure gauge 151 b operateindependently of whether the pressure build circuit is activated and ofwhether the vent valve 120 b is open. Thus, gas will escape through thefirst pressure relief device if its pressure is higher than the firstpressure relief device's opening threshold. Similarly, the gas willescape through the second pressure relief device if its pressure ishigher than the second pressure relief device's opening threshold. Itshould be understood that, in some instances, pressure in the ventmodule housing 110 b may exceed the first and/or second pressure reliefdevice's opening threshold despite the vent valve 120 b being open orpartially open. The pressure gauge 151 b will display the pressure ofthe gas in vent module housing 110 b on its side of the vent valve 120b.

It should be understood that the pressure relief and vent module 100 bmay be used in additional fluid control applications and/orconfigurations in addition and/or alternative to the examples describedabove.

FIGS. 20 and 21 are perspective views of a second embodiment of thesolenoid valve assembly 6000 of the present disclosure. FIG. 22A is across-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly 6000 in a closedconfiguration. FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valveassembly 6000 in an intermediate configuration. FIG. 22C is across-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly 6000 in a partiallyopen configuration. FIG. 22D is a cross-sectional view of the solenoidvalve assembly 6000 in a fully open configuration.

As shown in FIGS. 20-22D, the solenoid valve assembly 6000 includes avalve body 7000, a gasket 8000, the coil 3100, a cartridge 6200, a pin6250, a nut 6300, a plunger 6400, a retainer 6450, a poppet 6500, aplate 6600, a seat disc 6700, the sealing member 3800, the first biasingmember 3900, and a second biasing member 6950. The coil 3100, thesealing member 3800, and the first biasing member 3900 are describedabove in conjunction with FIGS. 10, 11, and 18A-D.

The valve body 7000 includes a flow portion 7110 and a mounting portion7120 transverse to the flow portion 7110. The flow portion 7110 includesmultiple surfaces (not labeled) that together define a flow passagebetween an inlet 7110 a and an outlet 7110 b. As shown in FIG. 22D, avalve seat 7112 is positioned within the flow passage between the inlet7110 a and the outlet 7110 b. The mounting portion 7120 includes a firstcylindrical region 7121, a second cylindrical region 7122, a threadedregion 7123, and a step 7124.

The first cylindrical region 7121 has a greater inner diameter than thesecond cylindrical region 7122. Thus, the first and second cylindricalregions 7121, 7122 define the step 7124 where the first and secondcylindrical regions 7121, 7122 meet one another.

The threaded region 7123 is internally threaded to threadably receivethe cartridge 6200.

In this embodiment, the valve body 7000 is made of brass, such as UNSC37700, though it may be made of any suitable material.

The gasket 8000 is ring shaped and is disposed in the valve body 7000.More specifically, the gasket 8000 abuts the step 7124 and contacts thefirst cylindrical region 7121. During assembly of the solenoid valve6000, the gasket 8000 slides along the first cylindrical region 7121before stopping against the step 7124. When the cartridge 6200 istightened in the valve body 7000, the gasket 8000 is at least partiallydeformed (e.g., crushed, etc.) to form a seal between the valve body7000 and the cartridge 6200. In this embodiment, the gasket 8000 ismetallic (e.g., copper, zinc, etc.), though it may be made of anysuitable material.

The coil 3100 is described above in conjunction with FIGS. 10 and 11.Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the coil 3100 includes anelectrical connector 3150. The coil 3100 is electrically connected to apower supply via the electrical connector 3150.

The cartridge 6200 includes a body 6210, a first annular extension 6220,a flange 6230, a second annular extension 6240, and a third annularextension 6260.

The body 6210 is partially disposed in coil 3100 and includes anexternally threaded end 6212 and an inner surface 6214. The threaded end6212 threadably engages the nut 6300. It should be appreciated that thecoil 3100 is slidably removable from the cartridge 6200. As shown inFIGS. 22A-D, an axial distance from the inner surface 6214 to theplunger 6400 is referred to as d13.

The first annular extension 6220 extends axially away from the body 6210opposite the threaded end 6212. The first annular extension 6220includes a thin wall region 6222. The first annular extension 6220defines an annular recess 6224 along the thin wall region 6222. Itshould be appreciated that magnetic attraction of the plunger 6400 isreduced along the thin wall region 6222. Thus, friction between theplunger 6400 and the cartridge 6200 is reduced and magnetic attractionof the plunger 6400 toward the body 6210 is enhanced. Further, the thinwall region 6222 separates magnetic field in the cartridge 6200 into twoparts that respectively pull and push the plunger 6400 to open and closethe valve assembly 6000. The first annular extension 6220 and the innersurface 6214 define a cylindrical void 6291.

The flange 6230 extends radially outwardly from the first annularextension 6220. The coil 3100 abuts the flange 6230. During assembly ofthe solenoid valve 6000, the coil 3100 slides along the body 6210 andthe first annular extension 6220 before stopping against the flange6230. When the nut 6300 is threaded onto the threaded end 6212, the coil3100 is captured on the cartridge 6200 between the flange 6230 and thenut 6300. As shown in FIGS. 22A-D, an axial distance from the plate 6600to the flange 6230 is referred to as d12.

The second annular extension 6240 extends axially away from the flange6230. As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the flange 6230 and the secondannular extension 6240 have a non-circular outer perimeter (e.g., ovate,square, hexagonal, polygonal, etc.) to permit application of torque tothe flange 6230 and the second annular extension 6240 with acorresponding tool.

The third annular extension 6260 extends axially away from the secondannular extension 6240. The second annular extension 6240 has a greaterouter perimeter than the third annular extension 6260. Thus, the secondand third annular extensions 6240, 6260 define a step 6244. The thirdannular extension 6260 is cylindrical and partially externally threadedto have an externally threaded region 6262 and a smooth region 6264. Theexternally threaded region 6262 is between the step 6244 and the smoothregion 6264. When the receptacle 6000 is assembled, the third annularextension 6260 is received by the mounting portion 7120 of the valvebody 7000. More specifically, the smooth region 6264 is inserted intothe first cylindrical region 7121 and the externally threaded region6262 is threaded into the threaded region 7123. As the cartridge 6200 istightened into the valve body 7000 via the flange 6230 and/or the firstannular extension 6240, the third annular extension 6260 crushes thegasket 8000 against the step 7124. The first and second annularextensions 6240, 6260 have the same inner diameter. The first annularextension 6240, the second annular extension, and the flange 6230 definea cylindrical void 6292. The cylindrical voids 6291, 6292 communicatewith one another and with the inlet 7110 a.

The plunger 6400 is rotatably and slidably disposed in the cartridge6200 in the cylindrical voids 6291, 6292. The plunger 6400 includes acylindrical first body section 6410, a partially conical taper section6412, and a cylindrical second body second 6420. The first body section6410 has a greater outer diameter than the second body section 6420. Thefirst body section 6410 transitions into the second body section 6420via the taper section 6412. The first and second body sections 6410,6420, and the taper section 6412 define a passage 6440 through theplunger 6400. The passage 6440 is in communication with the void 6291.The first body 6410 section has an internal step 6414. The second bodysection 6420 is internally threaded, in some examples, the internalthreading of the second body section 6420 extends partially into thetaper section 6412.

The retainer 6450 is disposed in the cartridge 6200 and is engaged withthe plunger 6400. It should be understood that the retainer 6450 mayalso be referred to as a spring support screw. In the examples of FIGS.22A-D, the plunger 6400 and the retainer 6450 are threadably engaged. Itshould be understood that the retainer 6450 and the plunger 6400 may beengaged to one another in any manner (e.g., press fit, crimped, glued,welded, riveted, etc.). The retainer 6450 includes a body 6460, a flange6470, and an annular extension 6480. The flange 6470 extends radiallyaway from the body 6460 to define a step 6472. The annular extension6480 extends axially away from the body 6460 opposite the flange 6470.The body 6460 and the annular extension 6480 define a passage 6490through the retainer 6450. In the examples of FIGS. 22A-D, the annularextension 6480 is externally threaded. When the receptacle 6000 isassembled, the externally threaded annular extension 6480 is threadedinto the internally threaded second body section 6420 of the plunger6400. Thus, the passage 6490 communicates with the passage 6440.

The pin 6250 is rotatably and slidably disposed in the plunger 6400 inthe passage 6440. The pin 6250 includes a pin flange 6252 configured toabut the step 6414. Thus, when the retainer 6450 is screwed into theplunger 6400, the pin 6250 is slidably captured in the plunger 6400between the step 6414 and the retainer 6450.

The first biasing member 3900 is disposed in the plunger 6400 in thepassage 6440 between the pin 6250 and the retainer 6450. The pin 6250 ispartially disposed in the first biasing member 3900 until the pin flange6252 abuts the first biasing member 3900. Thus, the first biasing member3900 is captured between the retainer 6450 and the pin 6250 to urge thepin 6250 away from the retainer 6450. In other words, the first biasingmember 3900 pushes the pin 6250 to extend the pin 6250 out of theplunger 6400 until the pin flange 6252 contacts the step 6414. Thus, thepin 6250 is spring-loaded in the plunger 6400 to contact the innersurface 6214 of the cartridge.

The plate 6600 is disposed in the cartridge 6200 and rotatably andslidably disposed about the plunger 6400 along the second body section6420. The plate 6600 includes a body 6610 and a flange 6620. The flange6620 extends radially away from the body 6610 to define a step 6612.When the receptacle 6000 is assembled, the plate 6600 is capturedbetween the body 6460 of the retainer 6450 and the taper section 6412 ofthe plunger 6400. As shown in FIGS. 22A-D, an axial distance from thebody 6460 to the body 6610 is referred to as d11.

The second biasing member 6950 is disposed about the body 6460 of theretainer 6450 to abut the flange 6470 at the step 6472. In the examplesof FIGS. 22A-D, the second biasing member 6950 is a compression spring.The second biasing member 6950 is disposed about the body 6610 of theplate 6600 to abut the flange 6620 at the step 6612. Thus, the secondbiasing member 6950 is captured between the plate 6600 and the retainer6450 to urge plate 6660 away from the retainer 6450 and toward the tapersection 6412. Thus, the second body section 6420 of the plunger 6400 ispartially disposed in the second biasing member 6950.

The poppet 6500 is rotatably and slidably disposed in the cartridge 6200and in the valve body 7000. The poppet 6500 includes a body 6510, aninner surface 6512, an annular extension 6520, a guiding flange 6530, anupper retaining flange 6542, and a lower retaining flange 6544. In thisembodiment, the poppet 6500 is made of metallic material (e.g., brass,stainless steel, etc.), though it may be made of any suitable material.It should be understood that the poppet 6500 may also be referred to asa seat disc holder.

The upper and lower retaining flanges 6542, 6544 extend radially awayfrom the body 6510. The lower retaining flange 6544 is configured to fitinside, but not contact, the valve seat 7112. The upper retaining flange6542 has a greater outer diameter than the lower retaining flange 6544.

The annular extension 6520 extends axially away from the body 6510opposite the upper and lower retainer flanges 6542, 6544. The poppet6500 slides in the cartridge 6200 along the annular extension 6520. Theannular extension 6520 has an internal step 6522. The annular extension6520 and the body 6510 define a void 6590. The plate 6600 is disposed inand engaged with the annular extension 6520 to abut the internal step6522. In some examples, the annular extension 6520 is crimped over theflange 6620 of the plate 6600 to capture the flange 6620 against theinternal step 6522. In some examples, the plate 6600 is pressed into thepoppet 6500 until the flange 6620 contacts the internal step 6522 toform an interference fit between the flange 6620 and the annularextension 6520. Thus, the second biasing member 6950 is disposed in thepoppet 6500. Further, the spring supporting screw 6450 is partiallydisposed in the poppet 6500. It should be appreciated that the plate6600 and the poppet 6500 move as a unit relative to the plunger 6400 andthe retainer 6450. As the poppet 6500 moves away from the plunger 6400,the second biasing member 6950 is compressed in the void 6590 and viceversa. The void 6590 is in communication with the passage 6490. Itshould be appreciated that because the voids 6291, 6292, 6590, thepassages 6440, 6490, and the inlet 7110 a are in communication with oneanother, formation of a vacuum between the retainer 6450 and the andpoppet 6500 is substantially prevented.

The guide flange 6530 extends radially away from the body 6510 betweenthe upper retaining flange 6542 and the annular extension 6520. In someexamples, the outer diameter of the guide flange 6530 is approximatelyequal to the outer diameter of the annular extension 6520. The poppet6500 slides along the second cylindrical region 7122 via the guideflange 6530. In other words, the guide flange 6530 rotatably andslidably contacts the second cylindrical region 7122 to restrain lateralmovement of the poppet 6500 relative to valve body 7000, to the plunger6400, and to the cartridge 6200. Further, the guide flange 6530 providesradial clearance between the poppet 6500 and the gasket 8000. Thus, thepoppet 6500 does not contact the gasket 8000 as the poppet 6500 axiallyslides in the valve body 7000 and the cartridge 6200.

The seat disc 6700 is disposed about the poppet 6500 between the upperand lower retaining flanges 6542, 6544. The upper and lower retainingflanges 6542, 6544 retain the seat disc 6700 on the poppet 6500. In someexamples, the seat disc 6700 is partially conical. The seat disc 6700 iscomposed of an elastomeric polymer material (e.g., rubber, plastic,etc.). Thus, the seat disc 6700 is configured to sealingly seat on thevalve seat 7112 and to pad contact between the valve body 7000 and thepoppet 6500. As shown in FIGS. 22A-D, a distance from the seat disc 6700to the valve seat 7112 is referred to as d14.

It should be understood and appreciated that the plunger 6400, theretainer 6450, the plate 6600, the pin 6250, the first biasing member3900, the second biasing member 6950, the seat disc 6700, and the poppet6500 are slidably removable from the cartridge 6200 as a unit.

The nut 6300 has a top surface 6302, a bottom surface 6304. The nut 6300has a non-circular outer perimeter to permit application of torque tothe nut with a corresponding tool, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21. The nut6300 defines an annular pocket 6314 and is internally threaded to definea void 6390. The sealing member 3800 is a ring shaped elastomer (e.g.,an O-ring, etc.) and is partially disposed in the annular pocket 6314 toextend slightly beyond (e.g., stand proud of) the bottom surface 6304.The nut 6300 receives and threadably engages with the threaded end 6212of the cartridge 6200. As the nut 6300 is tightened on the cartridge6200, the sealing member 3800 is compressed between the nut 6300 and thecoil 3100 until the bottom surface 6304 contacts the coil 3100. Thus,the sealing member 3800 prevents water, dust, and debris ingress betweenthe coil 3100 and the cartridge 6200.

It should be appreciated that because of the non-circular outerperimeters of the nut 6300, the flange 6320, and the first annularextension 6240, opposing torques may be applied to the nut 6300, thecartridge 6200, and/or to the valve body 7000. Thus, the nut 6300 may beremoved from the cartridge 6200 without unscrewing the cartridge 6200from the valve body 7000. Thus, the coil 3100 may be removed (e.g., formaintenance, replacement, cleaning, etc.) without breaking the sealbetween the cartridge 6200 and the valve body 7000 provided by thegasket 8000. Further, the nut 6300 may be tightened onto the cartridge6200 without over-tightening the cartridge 6200 into the valve body7000. Additionally, the gasket 8000, the coil 3100, the cartridge 6200,the pin 6250, the nut 6300, the plunger 6400, the retainer 6450, thepoppet 6500, the plate 6600, the seat disc 6700, the sealing member3800, the first biasing member 3900, and the second biasing member 6950are removable as a unit from the valve body 7000.

In operation, as shown in FIG. 22A, when the valve assembly 6000 is in afully closed position, the seat disc 6700 is seated in the valve seat7112 and the retainer 6450 axially contacts the inner surface 6512 ofthe poppet 6500. It should be appreciated, that when the valve assembly6000 is in the fully closed position, the distance d14 is zero. When thevalve assembly 6000 is in the fully closed position, friction betweenthe seat disc 6700 and the valve seat 7112 and fluid pressure exerted onthe poppet 6500 keep the seat disc 6700 seated in the valve seat 7112.Further, in some examples, the coil 3100 is energized to push the poppet6500 toward the valve body 7000 via the plunger 6400 and the retainer tomaintain a tight seal between the seat disc 6700 and the valve seat7112.

In operation, as shown in FIG. 22B, when the coil 3100 is initiallyenergized in a closing direction to open the valve assembly 6000, theplunger 6400 and the retainer 6450 are drawn into the cartridge 6200until the body 6460 contacts the body 6610. In other words, when theseat disc 6700 is seated in the valve seat 7112, and the retainer 6450contacts the plate 6600 to compress the biasing member 6950, the valveassembly 6000 is in an intermediate position, as shown in FIG. 22B.Thus, the distance d11 is closed, the distance d12 is substantiallyunchanged, the distance d13 is reduced, and the distance d14 remainsclosed, as shown in FIGS. 22A and B. In the examples of FIGS. 22A and B,the distance d11 is reduced from approximately 4.5 mm to zero. In theexamples of FIGS. 22A and B, the distance d13 is reduced fromapproximately 5 mm to approximately 0.5 mm. Thus, the electromagneticforce exerted by coil 3100 on the plunger 6400 overcomes the springforces of the first and second biasing members 3900, 6950 to move thevalve assembly 6000 from the closed position shown in FIG. 22A to theintermediate position shown in FIG. 22B. In other words, in theintermediate position shown in in FIG. 22B, the first and second biasingmembers 3900, 6950 are compressed, but the seat disc 6700 is notunseated (e.g., dislodged) from the valve seat 7112.

Further in operation, as shown in FIG. 22C, when the coil 3100 isfurther energized to open the valve assembly 6000, the plunger 6400, theretainer 6450, the plate 6600, the second biasing member 6950, and thepoppet 6500 are drawn into the cartridge 6200 until the plunger 6400contacts the inner surface 6214 and the seat disc 6700 is unseated fromthe valve seat 7112. In other words, when the retainer 6450 contacts theplate 6600 and the plunger 6400 contacts the inner surface 6214 todislodge the seat disc 6700 from the valve seat 7112, the valve assembly6000 is in a partially open position, as shown in FIG. 22C. Thus, thedistance d11 remains closed, the distance d13 is closed, the distanced12 is reduced, and the distance d14 increases as shown in FIGS. 22B andC. In the examples of FIGS. 22B and C, the distance d13 is reduced fromapproximately 0.5 mm to zero. In the examples of FIGS. 22B and C, thedistance d12 is reduced from approximately 5.2 mm to approximately 4.7mm. In the examples of FIGS. 22B and C, the distance d14 is increasedfrom zero to approximately 0.5 mm. Thus, the electromagnetic forceexerted by coil 3100 on the plunger 6400 overcomes friction between theseat disc 6700 and the valve seat 7112 and/or pressure forces exerted onthe poppet 6500 to move the valve assembly 6000 from the intermediateposition shown in FIG. 22B to the partially open position shown in FIG.22C. In other words, in the partially open position shown in in FIG.22C, the first and second biasing members 3900, 6950 are compressed, andthe seat disc 6700 is pulled away (e.g., cracked) from the valve seat7112. Thus, the seat disc 6700 is unseated from the valve seat 7112.

Further in operation, as shown in FIG. 22D, when the coil 3100 isenergized to hold the plunger 6400 against the inner surface 6214, thesecond biasing member 6950 extends to urge the plate 6600 further intothe cartridge 6200 until the flange 6470 contacts the poppet 6500 topull the poppet 6500 and the seat disc 6700 further away from the valveseat 7112. In other words, when the retainer 6450 contacts the poppet6500 and the plunger 6400 contacts the inner surface 6214 to retract theseat disc 6700 from the valve seat 7112, the valve assembly 6000 is in afully open position, as shown in FIG. 22D. Thus, the distance d13 isclosed, the distance d12 is reduced, the distance d11 increases, and thedistance d14 increases as shown in FIGS. 22C and D. In the examples ofFIGS. 22C and D, the distance d12 is reduced from approximately 4.7 mmto approximately 0.2 mm. In the examples of FIGS. 22C and D, thedistance d11 is increased from 0 to approximately 4.5 mm. In theexamples of FIGS. 22C and D, the distance d14 is increased fromapproximately 0.5 mm to approximately 1.6 mm. Thus, the spring forceexerted by the second biasing member 6950 between the retainer 6450 andthe poppet 6500 via the plate 6600 moves the valve assembly 6000 fromthe partially open position shown in FIG. 22C to the fully open positionshown in FIG. 22D. In other words, in the fully open position shown inin FIG. 22D, the first biasing member 3900 is compressed, the secondbiasing member 6950 is expanded, the plunger 6400 contacts the innersurface 6214, the retainer 6450 contacts the poppet 6500, and the seatdisc 6700 is retracted from the valve seat 7112. Thus, the valveassembly 6000 is fully opened, as shown in FIG. 22D.

Further in operation, as shown in FIGS. 22A and D, when the coil 3100 isenergized in a closing direction to close the valve assembly 6000, theplunger 6400, the retainer 6450, the plate 6600, the second biasingmember 6950, and the poppet 6500 are pushed out of the cartridge 6200until the seat disc 6700 is seated against the valve seat 7112. Thus,the distance d13 increases, the distance d12 increases, the distance d11is substantially unchanged, and the distance d14 is closed, as shown inFIGS. 22A and D. In the examples of FIGS. 22A and D, the distance d12increases from approximately 0.2 mm to approximately 5.2 mm. In theexamples of FIGS. 22A and D, the distance d13 is increased from 0 toapproximately 5 mm. In the examples of FIGS. 22A and D, the distance d14is decreased from approximately 1.6 mm to zero. Thus, the valve assembly6000 is fully closed, as shown in FIG. 22A.

While specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been describedin detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatvarious modifications and alternatives to those details could bedeveloped in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure.Accordingly, the particular arrangements disclosed are meant to beillustrative only and not limiting as to the scope of the inventionwhich is to be given the full breadth of the appended claims and anyequivalent thereof.

In various embodiments, a cryogenic cylinder control system forregulating fluid within a cryogenic cylinder comprises a pressure reliefand vent module fluidly connectable to a head space above liquid withinthe cryogenic cylinder, a manual valve module fluidly connectable to theliquid within the cryogenic cylinder and to an external device, asolenoid valve module fluidly connectable to the manual valve module andto the head space within the cryogenic cylinder, a build-up coil fluidlyconnectable to the manual valve module and to the solenoid valve module,and a controller operatively connected to the solenoid valve module tocontrol fluid flow through the solenoid valve module.

In one such embodiment, the pressure relief and vent module comprises apressure relief valve comprising a pressure relief valve inlet and apressure relief valve outlet. The pressure relief valve is movablebetween a pressure relief valve closed configuration in which fluidcannot flow from the pressure relief valve inlet to the pressure reliefvalve outlet and a pressure relief valve open configuration in whichfluid can flow from the pressure relief valve inlet to the pressurerelief valve outlet. The pressure relief valve is biased to the pressurerelief valve closed configuration and configured to move to the pressurerelief valve open configuration when a pressure of fluid at the pressurerelief valve inlet exceeds a pressure relief valve threshold.

In another such embodiment, the manual valve module comprises a firstvalve comprising a first valve inlet and a first valve outlet. The firstvalve is movable between a first valve open configuration in which fluidcan flow from the first valve inlet to the first valve outlet and afirst valve closed configuration in which fluid cannot flow from thefirst valve inlet to the first valve outlet. The first valve inlet isfluidly connectable to the liquid within the cryogenic cylinder and thefirst valve outlet is fluidly connectable to a build-up coil inlet ofthe build-up coil.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve module comprises asolenoid valve module valve body defining a solenoid valve module inlet,a solenoid valve module outlet, and a solenoid valve module combinationinlet/outlet. A build-up coil outlet of the build-up coil is fluidlyconnectable to the solenoid valve module inlet and the solenoid valvemodule combination inlet/outlet is fluidly connectable to the head spacewithin the cryogenic cylinder.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve module further comprisesa first solenoid valve supported by the solenoid valve module valve bodyand movable between a first solenoid valve closed configuration in whichthe first solenoid valve prevents fluid from flowing from the solenoidvalve module inlet to the solenoid valve module combination inlet/outletand a first solenoid valve open configuration in which the firstsolenoid valve enables fluid to flow from the solenoid valve moduleinlet to the solenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet.

In another such embodiment, the first solenoid valve comprises anelectromagnetic coil, is biased to the first solenoid valve closedconfiguration, and is configured to move to from the first solenoidvalve closed configuration to the first solenoid valve openconfiguration when the electromagnetic coil is energized.

In another such embodiment, the controller is configured to energize theelectromagnetic coil of the first solenoid valve when a sensed headspace pressure is below a first solenoid valve threshold.

In another such embodiment, the first valve, the build-up coil, and thefirst solenoid valve form a pressure-building circuit. When the firstvalve inlet is in fluid communication with the liquid within thecryogenic cylinder, the first valve outlet is in fluid communicationwith the first valve inlet, the first valve outlet is in fluidcommunication with the solenoid valve module inlet, the solenoid valvemodule combination inlet/outlet is in fluid communication with the headspace within the cryogenic cylinder, the first valve is in the firstvalve open configuration, and the sensed pressure is below the firstsolenoid valve threshold, liquid flows from the cryogenic cylinderthrough the first valve to the build-up coil inlet, the build-up coilvaporizes the liquid into gas, the gas flows from the build-up coiloutlet to the solenoid valve module inlet, the gas flows from thesolenoid valve module inlet to the solenoid valve module combinationinlet/outlet, and the gas flows from the solenoid valve modulecombination inlet/outlet to head space within the cryogenic cylinder.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve module comprises asolenoid valve module valve body defining a solenoid valve module inlet,a solenoid valve module outlet, and a solenoid valve module combinationinlet/outlet. The solenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet isfluidly connectable to the head space within the cryogenic cylinder.

In another such embodiment, the manual valve module comprises a secondvalve comprising a second valve inlet and a second valve outlet and ismovable between a second valve open configuration in which fluid canflow from the second valve inlet to the second valve outlet and a secondvalve closed configuration in which fluid cannot flow from the secondvalve inlet to the second valve outlet. The second valve inlet isfluidly connectable to the solenoid valve module outlet and the secondvalve outlet is fluidly connectable to an external device.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve module further comprisesa second solenoid valve supported by the solenoid valve module valvebody and movable between a second solenoid valve closed configuration inwhich the second solenoid valve prevents fluid from flowing from thesolenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet to the solenoid valvemodule outlet and a second solenoid valve open configuration in whichthe second solenoid valve enables fluid to flow from the solenoid valvemodule combination inlet/outlet to the solenoid valve module outlet.

In another such embodiment, the second solenoid valve comprises anelectromagnetic coil, is biased to the second solenoid valve closedconfiguration, and is configured to move to from the second solenoidvalve closed configuration to the second solenoid valve openconfiguration when the electromagnetic coil is energized.

In another such embodiment, the controller is configured to energize theelectromagnetic coil of the second solenoid valve when a sensed headspace pressure is above a second solenoid valve threshold.

In another such embodiment, the second valve and the second solenoidvalve form an economizer circuit. When the solenoid valve modulecombination inlet/outlet is in fluid communication with the head spacewithin the cryogenic cylinder, the solenoid valve module outlet is influid communication with the second valve inlet, the second valve outletis in fluid communication with the external device, the second valve isin the second valve open configuration, and the sensed pressure is abovethe second solenoid valve threshold, gas flows from the head spacewithin the cryogenic cylinder to the solenoid valve module combinationinlet/outlet, from the solenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet tothe solenoid valve module outlet, from the solenoid valve module outletto the second valve inlet, from the second valve inlet to the secondvalve outlet, and from the second valve outlet to the external device.

In another such embodiment, the cryogenic cylinder control systemfurther comprises an excess flow valve in fluid communication with thesecond valve outlet and configured to route the gas from the secondvalve outlet to the external device.

In another such embodiment, the manual valve module further comprises acheck valve comprising a check valve inlet fluidly connectable to theliquid within the cryogenic cylinder and a check valve outlet fluidlyconnectable to the second valve inlet and to the solenoid valve moduleoutlet.

In another such embodiment, the check valve is configured to prevent gasflowing from the solenoid valve module outlet from flowing from thecheck valve outlet to the check valve inlet.

In another such embodiment, when the solenoid valve module combinationinlet/outlet is in fluid communication with the head space within thecryogenic cylinder, the solenoid valve module outlet is in fluidcommunication with the second valve inlet, the second valve outlet is influid communication with the external device, the check valve inlet isin fluid communication with the liquid within the cryogenic cylinder,the check valve outlet is in fluid communication with the second valveinlet and to the solenoid valve module outlet, the second valve is inthe second valve open configuration, and the sensed pressure is belowthe second solenoid valve threshold, liquid flows from the cryogeniccylinder to the check valve inlet, from the check valve inlet to thecheck valve outlet, from the check valve outlet to the second valveinlet, from the second valve inlet to the second valve outlet, and fromthe second valve outlet to the external device.

In another such embodiment, the cryogenic cylinder control systemfurther comprises an excess flow valve in fluid communication with thesecond valve outlet and configured to route the liquid from the secondvalve outlet to the external device.

In various embodiments, a pressure relief device and vent module for acryogenic cylinder control system comprises a housing defining a fluidinlet, a pressure relief device supported by the housing and in fluidcommunication with the fluid inlet, and a valve supported by the housingand in fluid communication with the fluid inlet. The valve is movablebetween a valve closed configuration in which the valve prevents fluidreceived at the fluid inlet from flowing through the valve and a valveopen configuration in which the valve enables fluid received at thefluid inlet to flow through the valve.

In one such embodiment, the pressure relief device is movable between apressure relief valve closed configuration in which fluid received atthe fluid inlet cannot flow through the pressure relief device and apressure relief valve open configuration in which fluid received at thefluid inlet can flow through the pressure relief device.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device comprises abiasing element that biases the pressure relief device to the pressurerelief device closed configuration.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device moves from thepressure relief device closed configuration to the pressure reliefdevice open configuration when fluid received at the fluid inlet has apressure that exceeds a first threshold pressure.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device and vent modulefurther comprises a second pressure relief device supported by thehousing and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet.

In another such embodiment, the second pressure relief device comprisesa burst disc configured to rupture when fluid received at the fluidinlet has a pressure that exceeds a second threshold pressure.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device and vent modulefurther comprises a pressure gauge supported by the housing and in fluidcommunication with the fluid inlet.

In another such embodiment, the pressure gauge is configured to displaya pressure of fluid received at the fluid inlet.

In another such embodiment, the housing further defines a pressurebuild-up circuit inlet that is fluidly connectable to an outlet of apressure build-up circuit and that is in fluid communication with thefluid inlet.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device and vent modulefurther comprises a vent receptacle supported by the housing and influid communication with the valve.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device and vent modulefurther comprises a second pressure relief device supported by thehousing and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet and a pressuregauge supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the fluidinlet.

In various embodiments, a pressure relief device and vent module for acryogenic cylinder control system comprises a housing defining a fluidinlet and multiple mounting openings in fluid communication with thefluid inlet and a valve supported by the housing and in fluidcommunication with the fluid inlet. The valve is movable between a valveclosed configuration in which the valve prevents fluid received at thefluid inlet from flowing through the valve and a valve openconfiguration in which the valve enables fluid received at the fluidinlet to flow through the valve.

In various embodiments, a manual valve module for a cryogenic cylindercontrol system comprises a housing, a first valve supported by thehousing, a check valve supported by the housing, and a second valvesupported by the housing. The first valve is movable between a firstvalve closed configuration in which the first valve prevents fluid fromflowing through the first valve and a first valve open configuration inwhich the first valve enables fluid to flow through the first valve. Thesecond valve is movable between a second valve closed configuration inwhich the second valve prevents fluid from flowing through the secondvalve and a second valve open configuration in which the second valveenables fluid to flow through the second valve.

In one such embodiment, the first valve is a globe valve.

In another such embodiment, the first valve and the second valve areglobe valves.

In another such embodiment, the manual valve module further comprises anexcess flow valve in fluid communication with the second valve.

In various embodiments, a solenoid valve module for a cryogenic cylindercontrol system comprises a valve body defining a fluid inlet, a fluidoutlet, and a combination fluid inlet/outlet, a first solenoid valvesupported by the valve body, and a second solenoid valve supported bythe valve body. The first solenoid valve is movable between a firstclosed configuration in which the first solenoid valve prevents fluidfrom flowing from the fluid inlet to the combination fluid inlet/outletand a first open configuration in which the first solenoid valve enablesfluid to flow from the fluid inlet to the combination fluidinlet/outlet. The second solenoid valve is movable between a secondclosed configuration in which the second solenoid valve prevents fluidfrom flowing from the combination fluid inlet/outlet to the fluid outletand a second open configuration in which the second solenoid valveenables fluid to flow from the combination fluid inlet/outlet to thefluid outlet.

In one such embodiment, the first solenoid valve comprises a firstelectromagnetic coil, is biased to the first closed configuration, andis configured to move to from the first closed configuration to thefirst open configuration when the first electromagnetic coil isenergized.

In another such embodiment, the second solenoid valve comprises a secondelectromagnetic coil, is biased to the second closed configuration, andis configured to move to from the second closed configuration to thesecond open configuration when the second electromagnetic coil isenergized.

In various embodiments, a valve for conveying fluid comprises a valvebody comprising a valve seat and defining an inlet and an outlet influid communication with one another, a gland nut mounted to the valvebody, a lower spindle threadably engaged to the valve body, a seat discmounted to the lower spindle, an upper spindle matingly engaged to thelower spindle such that rotation of the upper spindle causes the lowerspindle to rotate, and a biasing member extending between the upper andlower spindles and biasing the upper spindle into sealing engagementwith the gland nut. The valve is movable between a closed configurationin which the seat disc sealingly engages the valve seat and preventsfluid flow from the inlet to the outlet to an open configuration inwhich the seat disc is disengaged from the valve seat and enables fluidflow from the inlet to the outlet.

In one such embodiment, the upper spindle is in the same position whenthe valve is in the closed and open configurations.

In another such embodiment, when the valve is in the open configuration,rotation of the upper spindle in a first direction causes the lowerspindle to begin threading off of the valve body and moving toward thevalve seat.

In another such embodiment, when the valve is in the closedconfiguration, rotation of the upper spindle in a second directiondifferent from the first direction causes the lower spindle to beginthreading back onto the valve body and moving away from the valve seat.

In another such embodiment, the valve further comprises a first sealingmember between the gland nut and the upper spindle, wherein the biasingmember biases the upper spindle into contact with the first sealingmember to compress the first sealing member between the gland nut andthe upper spindle.

In another such embodiment, the valve further comprises a second sealingmember between the gland nut and the upper spindle.

In another such embodiment, the first sealing member comprises a taperedouter surface.

In another such embodiment, the upper and lower spindles are rotatablerelative to the gland nut and the valve body.

In another such embodiment, the upper spindle comprises a lower spindleengaging portion, the lower spindle includes an upper spindle engagingsurface that defines an upper spindle receiving bore, and the lowerspindle engaging portion of the upper spindle is received in the upperspindle receiving bore defined by the lower spindle to matingly engagethe upper spindle to the lower spindle.

In another such embodiment, the lower spindle engaging portion comprisesmultiple flats that each engage part of the upper spindle engagingsurface of the lower spindle.

In another such embodiment, the upper spindle comprises a tool engagingportion shaped for engagement by a tool to facilitate rotation of theupper spindle.

In various embodiments, a solenoid valve assembly comprises a valve bodycomprising a valve seat and defining an inlet and an outlet in fluidcommunication with one another, a cartridge mounted to the valve body, aplunger slidably received by the cartridge, a seat disc holder slidablyreceived by the cartridge, a retainer attached to the seat disc holdersuch that the retainer and the seat disc holder form a plunger headreceiving cavity that houses a head of the plunger, a seat disc attachedto the seat disc holder, and an electromagnetic coil energizable tocause the solenoid valve assembly to move from a closed configuration inwhich the seat disc sealingly engages the valve seat and prevents fluidflow from the inlet to the outlet to an open configuration in which theseat disc is disengaged from the valve seat and enables fluid flow fromthe inlet to the outlet.

In one such embodiment, the electromagnetic coil is energizable to causethe solenoid valve assembly to move from the closed configuration to afirst intermediate configuration, from the first intermediateconfiguration to a second intermediate configuration, and from thesecond intermediate configuration to the open configuration.

In another such embodiment, the plunger is in a first plunger positionwhen the solenoid valve assembly is in the closed configuration and asecond plunger position different from the first plunger position whenthe solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the plunger is in a third plunger positiondifferent from the first and second plunger positions when the solenoidvalve assembly is in the second intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the plunger is in the third plunger positionwhen the solenoid valve assembly is in the open configuration.

In another such embodiment, the seat disc holder is in a first seat discholder position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the closedconfiguration and when the solenoid valve assembly is in the firstintermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the seat disc holder is in a second seatdisc holder position different from the first seat disc holder positionwhen the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediateconfiguration.

In another such embodiment, the seat disc holder is in a third seat discholder position different from the second seat disc holder position whenthe solenoid valve assembly is in the second intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the retainer is in a first retainer positionwhen the solenoid valve assembly is in the closed configuration and whenthe solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the retainer is in a second retainerposition different from the first retainer position when the solenoidvalve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the retainer is in a third retainer positiondifferent from the second retainer position when the solenoid valveassembly is in the second intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the seat disc is in a first seat discposition when the solenoid valve assembly is in the closed configurationand when the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediateconfiguration.

In another such embodiment, the seat disc is in a second seat discposition different from the first seat disc position when the solenoidvalve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the seat disc is in a third seat discposition different from the second seat disc position when the solenoidvalve assembly is in the second intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the seat disc sealingly engages the valveseat when the solenoid valve assembly is in the closed configuration andwhen the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediateconfiguration.

In another such embodiment, movement of the solenoid valve assembly fromthe closed configuration to the open configuration comprises movement ofthe plunger relative to the seat disc holder, the retainer, and the seatdisc and subsequent movement of the seat disc holder, the retainer, andthe seat disc relative to the plunger.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve assembly furthercomprises a biasing member that biases the solenoid valve assembly tothe closed configuration.

In another such embodiment, the biasing member extends between thecartridge and the plunger.

1-15. (canceled)
 16. A valve for conveying fluid, comprising: a valvebody comprising a valve seat and defining an inlet and an outlet influid communication with one another; a gland nut mounted to the valvebody; a lower spindle threadably engaged to the valve body; a seat discmounted to the lower spindle; an upper spindle matingly engaged to thelower spindle such that rotation of the upper spindle causes the lowerspindle to rotate; and a biasing member extending between the upper andlower spindles and biasing the upper spindle into sealing engagementwith the gland nut, wherein the valve is movable between a closedconfiguration in which the seat disc sealingly engages the valve seatand prevents fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet and an openconfiguration in which the seat disc is disengaged from the valve seatand enables fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet.
 17. The valve ofclaim 16, wherein the upper spindle is in the same position when thevalve is in the closed and open configurations.
 18. The valve of claim16, wherein when the valve is in the open configuration, rotation of theupper spindle in a first direction causes the lower spindle to beginthreading off of the valve body and moving toward the valve seat. 19.The valve of claim 18, wherein when the valve is in the closedconfiguration, rotation of the upper spindle in a second directiondifferent from the first direction causes the lower spindle to beginthreading back onto the valve body and moving away from the valve seat.20. The valve of claim 16, further comprising a first sealing memberbetween the gland nut and the upper spindle, wherein the biasing memberbiases the upper spindle into contact with the first sealing member tocompress the first sealing member between the gland nut and the upperspindle.
 21. The valve of claim 20, further comprising a second sealingmember between the gland nut and the upper spindle.
 22. The valve ofclaim 20, wherein the first sealing member comprises a tapered outersurface.
 23. The valve of claim 16, wherein the upper and lower spindlesare rotatable relative to the gland nut and the valve body.
 24. Thevalve of claim 16, wherein the upper spindle comprises a lower spindleengaging portion, the lower spindle includes an upper spindle engagingsurface that defines an upper spindle receiving bore, and the lowerspindle engaging portion of the upper spindle is received in the upperspindle receiving bore defined by the lower spindle to matingly engagethe upper spindle to the lower spindle.
 25. The valve of claim 24,wherein the lower spindle engaging portion comprises multiple flats thateach engage part of the upper spindle engaging surface of the lowerspindle.
 26. The valve of claim 24, wherein the upper spindle comprisesa tool engaging portion shaped for engagement by a tool to facilitaterotation of the upper spindle.
 27. A manual valve module for a cryogeniccylinder control system comprising: a housing; and a manual valvesupported by the housing, the manual valve comprising: a valve bodycomprising a valve seat and defining an inlet and an outlet in fluidcommunication with one another; a gland nut mounted to the valve body,the gland nut including a sealing cavity defined by a plurality of innersurfaces; a lower spindle threadably engaged to a lower portion of thevalve body, the lower spindle including a sealing portion configured toengage with the valve seat; an upper spindle disposed in an upperportion of the valve body, the upper spindle engaged to the lowerspindle such that rotation of the upper spindle causes rotation of thelower spindle; a sealing member disposed around a portion of the upperspindle; and a biasing member extending between and exerting a biasingforce on the upper spindle and the lower spindle, wherein the biasingforce exerted on the upper spindle causes the sealing member tosealingly engage with the sealing cavity of the gland nut.
 28. Themanual valve module of claim 27, wherein rotation of the upper spindlein a first direction causes the upper spindle and the lower spindle torotate relative to the valve body, the gland nut, and the sealing membersuch that the lower spindle unthreads from the lower portion of thevalve body and moves longitudinally away from the upper spindle.
 29. Themanual valve module of claim 28, wherein, rotation of the upper spindlein the first direction causes the biasing force generated by the biasingmember to act on the lower spindle such that the sealing portion of thelower spindle sealingly engages the valve seat.
 30. The manual valvemodule of claim 27, wherein, the upper spindle comprises a tool engagingportion configured to engage with a tool during rotation of the upperspindle.
 31. A manual valve module for a cryogenic cylinder controlsystem, comprising: a housing; and a manual valve supported by thehousing, the manual valve comprising: a valve body comprising a valveseat and defining an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with oneanother; a lower spindle threadably engaged to a lower portion of thevalve body, the lower spindle including a sealing portion configured toengage with the valve seat; an upper spindle disposed in an upperportion of the valve body, the upper spindle engaged to the lowerspindle such that rotation of the upper spindle causes rotation of thelower spindle; and a biasing member extending between the upper spindleand the lower spindle, wherein rotation of the manual valve in a firstdirection causes the upper and lower spindles to rotate relative to thevalve body.
 32. The manual valve module of claim 31, further comprising:a gland nut mounted to the valve body; and a sealing member disposedaround a portion of the upper spindle, wherein rotation of the upperspindle in the first direction causes the biasing member to generate abiasing force acting on the upper spindle such that the sealing membersealingly engages the gland nut.
 33. The manual valve module of claim32, wherein rotation of the manual valve in the first direction causesthe upper and lower spindles to rotate relative to the valve body, thegland nut, and the sealing member.
 34. The manual valve module of claim31, wherein, rotation of the upper spindle in the first direction causesthe biasing member to generate a biasing force to act on the lowerspindle such that the sealing portion of the lower spindle sealinglyengages the valve seat.
 35. The manual valve module of claim 31,wherein, the upper spindle comprises a tool engaging portion configuredto engage with a tool during rotation of the manual valve.